George Earle Leath

George Earle Leath of Keystone Heights, FL passed away on October 18, 2024, at the age of 79. He is survived by his wife Dianne of 53 years, and their golden retriever Princess Grace “Gracie” of Lake Brooklyn. He is predeceased by his parents, A.S. “Skeet” and Eunice Leath; brother and sister-in-law Don and Fran Leath; sister Lois Leath Pitman; brother-in-law Stefan Brokas; nieces Kathy Jarosz and Missy Brokas; nephew Mac Leath; and four golden retrievers, Ginger, Sandy, Carly, and Katie. He also leaves behind sister-in-laws Christine Brokas and Celeste Brokas; brother-in-law Mickey Brokas (Nora); nieces Elaine Goodrich, Lisa Darnall, Becky Mattix (Mike), Marieka Allen (Trevor), Stefanie Renovales (Gerardo), Alexis Barnie (David); nephews Russ Pitman (Kim), Nik Brokas (Stasia); great niece Lauren Silverman (Ian); great nephews Jordan Goodrich, T.J. and Trent Allen; great-great niece Emilia Silverman; great-great nephew Max Silverman; brother-in-law and longtime friend Billy Pitman (Sylvia). He was born September 25, 1945 in Jacksonville, FL and moved to Keystone Heights in the 9th grade to join the first graduating class at Keystone Heights School. He served in the U.S. Navy Reserves for 26 years and retired as a Chief Petty Officer. With a combined service of 32 years, he worked as a Federal Fire Fighter at NAS JAX and Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department. He was very active in Ducks Unlimited, a life sponsor, and chairman of the Keystone Heights Chapter. He was a member of the Melrose Masonic Lodge #89F&M. His greatest love other than his wife was duck hunting at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. There were also many hunting and fishing trips with his TGA friends Billy, Don, Herb, Rex, Mike, and Earle that he thoroughly enjoyed. This was evident in his love for the outdoors which included boating, working in the yard and the training of his golden retrievers who hunted with him. He was an avid football fan and loved watching the Gators play. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, November 11, 2024, at Keystone Heights Methodist Church, 4004 State Road 21 SE, Keystone Heights, FL. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to donate to a charity of your choice. Those desiring may send messages of sympathy and encouragement by going to his tribute page at www.stjohnsfamilyfuneralhome.com St. Johns Family Funeral Home of St. Augustine is assisting the family with arrangements.

George Earle Leath

September 25, 1945 - October 18, 2024