George V. Amos Sr.

September 25, 1940 – June 18, 2025

George V. Amos, Sr., affectionately known as “Granddad” to some and “The Watermelon Man” to others, was born on September 25, 1940, in Grenada, Mississippi, to the late John and Jesse Amos. He departed this life peacefully on June 18, 2025, at Silver Cross Hospital, surrounded by love.

He was reunited with his beloved wife, Trollie Mae Amos; daughter, Kathy Amos; son, Paul Amos; and grandson, Damen Amos.

With his passing, the final chapter of a generation has closed. The last of nine siblings, he carried the torch of his family’s faith, wisdom, and love to the very end. He was also reunited with the remainder of his siblings.

George wasn’t shy about his faith and boldly spoke of his strong belief in Christ often and consistently. As Chairman of the Deacon Board at St. John Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Odell Thompson, he served faithfully and wholeheartedly. Many recall how he served as Superintendent of Sunday School. During that time, he made sure the children received Easter baskets every Easter. Later that year, he had us form an assembly line to pack the coveted Christmas treat bags that always had an apple, an orange, some nuts, and candy—including a candy cane and that soft nougat candy with the maroon stripes and the Christmas tree in the center. And who could forget the iconic Vacation Bible School cookies and red punch?

Granddad had many passions, but selling watermelons was one of his favorites. If you knew him, chances are you either bought one from him or he gave you one—or two. You might have called him to ask a question about something in the Bible or needed his advice on a car problem. He had a knack for diagnosing issues and helping you decide what kind of car to buy—or not.

One thing everyone knew about Granddad was, no matter what you asked of him, he was going to raise some sand. That was just his way. While he was fussing with raised hands or shaking his head, he was already in motion— doing what you asked of him or giving you what you needed. His grumbling wasn’t resistance; it was part of the package, wrapped around a heart that gave generously and without hesitation.

He also liked to drive fast—and a lot of us inherited that. Whether behind the wheel or in life, he moved with purpose and didn’t believe in wasting time.

Though sometimes he would become a bit forgetful, his love for Jesus never faded. He spoke of God’s goodness until the very end. And every single time you called him, without fail, he’d answer with, “He woke me up.” It became one of those little things we’ll all miss and laugh about for years to come.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his children: Johnny Wright of Wooster, OH, Dorothy Stribling (Dwight) of Lynwood, IL, George Amos Jr. (Dr. Ruby Yvonne) of Douglasville, GA; Patricia Amos-Thigpen of Savannah, GA, Leon Amos of Atlanta, GA, Eddie Amos of South Georgia; and Yolanda McKinnon (Andrew) of Buford, GA.  He is survived by his granddaughter, Nekeisha Edwards (Rodney) of Fort Lee, NJ, whom he raised and loved as his own daughter. He also leaves behind a host of grandchildren, great- grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cherished friends, Robert Gilmore and Lee Coleman. Their lives have been deeply enriched by his faith, wisdom, humor, and unwavering love— and so was his.

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