757.628.1000

George Caronzo McGaskey


Sunrise: February 17, 1945

Sunset: January 18, 2024

On Thursday, January 18,2024, our beloved George McGaskey was called home to the loving arms of our Lord and Savior for his eternal rest. George, called Ronnie by some and Godfather by others, was a loving, compassionate husband, brother, father, grandfather, great grandfather, relative, and a friend.

George was born February 17,1945 in Portsmouth, Virginia to Aljay and Josephine McGaskey. He was baptized and became a member of Celestial Baptist Church in the Mt. Hermon community of Portsmouth, Virginia. Even as he grew into manhood and aged, he never severed his ties to that community. George’s big heart and love of family and friends were the driving force in his life. A ‘fair weather friend’ he was not, but was there in good and tough times; whether near or far. It can be said that he was a pillar of support to family and friends.

He attended Norfolk County schools for his early educational endeavors. Upon graduating from Crestwood High School in 1962, he attended Kentucky State College until he enlisted in the Army in 1965. He served honorably until 1971. Upon his discharge, he enrolled and graduated from Norfolk State University receiving a B.S. Degree in Political Science.

While at Norfolk State University, George pledged Omega Psi Phi in 1971 and remained a devoted member throughout his life. He was affiliated with the National Society of Pershing Rifles and was also a beloved supporter of the Norfolk State University Alumni Association. George was also a passionate member of PSATC Alumni for over 35 years.

George worked in the private sector for many years before discovering his true passion for service to others. He was committed to rehabilitation and recovery programs and mental health services for adults and children in the Tidewater Area in Virginia.

George is survived by his wife Deborah H. McGaskey, four children, Deana McGaskey Tellez, Ronnie and his wife April, Aljay, Miranda, and step daughter, Kellyn Hamilton, eleven grandchildren, six great grandchildren. Also he leaves a sister, Beverly Ellis, an aunt, Joyce Elliott, and a host of relatives and friends.

Viewing Monday, February 5, 2024 2:00pm - 6:00pm Metropolitan Funeral Service 7246 Granby Street Norfolk, VA 23505 Omega Memorial Service Monday, February 5, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm Metropolitan Funeral Service Granby Chapel Service COME IN PERSON OR WATCH SERVICE LIVE ONLINE Tuesday, February 6, 2024 11:00am Metropolitan Funeral Service Granby Chapel Interment Albert G. Horton Veteran Cemetery 5310 Milners Road Suffolk, VA 23434

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Condolences(7)

  1. reply
    Brenda Upshaw says

    My condolences to the family… such nice man.🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

  2. reply
    Linda Holmes Taylor says

    McGaskey and I have been dear friends for over 50 years. We met in the student union building at NSU in 1972 and had an instant connection. He was my beloved friend all these years. I love him and will miss him terribly. 🙏🏽😞

  3. reply
    Grover mungo says

    Rest in peace my brother

  4. reply
    Brenda Betts says

    George and my husband were friends and I knew George through him. George was always a gentleman and a friend. I know he will truly be missed by anyone who knew him. You have my condolences and prayers.

  5. reply
    Deborah Taylor Mapp says

    To George’s Family: my prayers and thoughts are with you as you say, “So long” to one so dear. I mat George when he applied to become a Licensed Provider through DBHDS. We developed a friendship and we would talk occasionally. I saw him about a year ago and we had a good conversation and he told me how he appreciated my help in him becoming a licensed provider. I thank him for the work that he was doing in helping individuals with mental health issues. George was a caring individual and will be missed. May he rest in peace with Jesus. Blessings and comfort to each of you.

  6. reply
    Terry Jefferson says

    I was sadden to hear of Big George McGaskey passing . I haven’t seen him in quite sometime but I’ll never forget the impact he made on my life . Big George spoke life to me at a time in my life when I needed it most .
    My Condolences to all who grieve this loss. Big George
    Rest Easy King 👑

  7. reply
    Brittney Boykins says

    I love you, Aljay💔💔
    Rest In Peace Uncle George

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