Murfreesboro, TN - George Huddleston, Jr. is enjoying flying once again. This gentle and caring Murfreesboro leader passed away Thursday morning (11/21/2024) after a long and brave struggle with cancer. Arrangements are incomplete at this time, and will be announced later from Woodfin Funeral Chapel.
George was always passionate about everything in which he was involved. Whether it was his church, devotion to family, love for aviation, or his commitment to Rotary--his life was centered around helping others and making a positive impact. He also made it a point to live by Rotary's 4-Way Test: 1. Is it the truth, 2. Is it fair to all concerned, 3. Will it build goodwill and better friendships, and 4. Will it be beneficial to all concerned.
He was very active in the Murfreesboro Rotary Club and served many times on the board, past president and continued to keep the by laws and constitution up to date.
As noted, George loved airplanes. He and his close Rotary friend, the late Dr. Jim Boerner, bought an airplane together and a lifelong friendship of helping others through aircraft was born. George volunteered for medical flights or any excursion that helped others.
His aeronautical enthusiasm also earned George a place on The Tennessee Aeronautics Commission. On that statewide board, he represented general aviation.
George was also passionate about his two alma maters: Webb School and Vanderbilt. He was on Webb's board and was always supported the Black & Gold in every way that he could.
If it filled a need for Murfreesboro and Middle Tennessee, George was interested. That's why in 2019 he was elected to the board of Alive Hospice, a position George held until his death Thursday (11/21/2024) morning at Murfreesboro Alive Hospice.
Judge Don Ash: "George was a special soul. His faith was such a wonderful witness to those of us who called him friend. From his work with the Rotary club, to his work career, and love for his family, he touched so many lives. I will miss his kind heart and warm smile. Soli Deo Gloria!"
Murfreesboro Mayor Shane McFarland: “George was a dedicated servant to our City. He served over 20 years on our Airport Commission and served on the State Aeronautics commission. His leadership and servant heart will be missed.”
Jami K. Averwater: "George Huddleston was a good man who filled his days with service to the community, flying airplanes, and loving his family. He helped me, and so many others, navigate difficult periods in life with his advice and compassion. The outpouring of love reminds us how lucky we are to have known him. Murfreesboro is a better place because of George."
Murfreesboro Airport Director Chad Gehre: "George Huddleston was the Chair of the Airport Commission for over two decades. George was the Chair of the Airport Commission when Mayor Joe B. Jackson and City Council made a critical decision to take over the direct management of the Murfreesboro Municipal Airport George was not only the persistent spark to cultivate this change but he also provided the tireless leadership to ensure the transition was successful. George spent hours pouring over excel spreadsheets and budgets always with a vision in mind of how the airport could be improved and serve our community as a true economic asset.
George poured his heart and mind into so many causes in our community. I am sure he may have gotten in trouble with his dad for all the time he spent on these community issues but he loved helping people. He loved Murfreesboro and the people of Murfreesboro.
Maybe his greatest joy was teaching children in Sunday School. George was not afraid of hard work either. Many times he would ask me to meet him at one of his stores and when I got there I couldn’t find him right away. I would eventually find him in a hole fixing a pump or pipe and he seemed to always enjoy the challenge. It did not matter how difficult or dirty the job, George seemed to look at it as another challenge to outsmart, fix, and conquer. I learned a great deal working with George through the years. George always asked questions. He would ask questions that you would never even consider. It was frustrating at times but I always knew what George’s intentions were, to help make a better community. The questions he asked would force you to look at the issue at hand from a different perspective. Sometimes those questions lead to a new and better solution. I will miss George and this community will miss George. One thing I know without any question…..is that Murfreesvoro is a better place today because of George. No questions asked."
FAA Larry Williams: "He was a long time member and Chairman of the Airport Commission, Member of the Tennessee Aeronautics Commission had 2 airplanes (part interest in each one). Was big proponent of aviation and growth of the Murfreesboro Airport."
