George Mark Deal
November 6, 1946 – April 7, 2025
George Mark Deal, 78, of Crestview, Florida, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2025. Born on November 6, 1946, in Lynwood, California, George lived a full and colorful life marked by service, hard work, and a love for the simple pleasures.
George is preceded in death by his stepfather and mother, Bob and Martha Miles. He is survived by his sister Kathleen Lippman, former wife and friend, Elinor Sullivan, his sons Justin and Jared (“JD”) Deal, his daughter-in-law Marilu Deal, and his grandson Lucas Deal.
George grew up in southern California, attending Aviation High School in Redondo Beach. After graduating in 1964, he enlisted in the US Navy and proudly served on the USS Bennington (CVS-20) during the Vietnam War. Upon return to civilian life, George joined the California Highway Patrol and worked out of the Malibu office for 12 years, before an early retirement due a job-related disability ended his law enforcement career.
After retirement, George spent most of the ‘80s in Massachusetts, but being a native Californian, he grew tired of the cold and moved to Naples, Florida, in 1989, where he lived for over a decade. Finally, in 2005, he moved to Crestview, which is where he would spend the rest of his life.
George had a knack for keeping things low-key but always interesting. He was a fan of classic movies, particularly John Wayne westerns, and he enjoyed taking trips with son Jared or friends to the casino. On a related note, he loved scratch tickets, and they always made an easy gift for birthdays and holidays. A devoted supporter of Liverpool FC, he could be heard cheering (and occasionally cursing) at the TV during Premier League matches. Those who knew him well appreciated his dry wit, quiet presence, and the way he could say a lot with just a look.
One of the greatest joys in George’s life was his grandson, Lucas. George was immensely proud of everything Lucas accomplished, cheering him on through his early days in hockey and later as he thrived in lacrosse. One of George’s fondest memories was flying the entire family to Disney World—a trip filled with laughter, magic, and moments we all cherished deeply. In the final weeks of his life, George surprised Lucas with a heartfelt gesture: a college fund he had saved for since the day Lucas was born. It was a testament to the love he had for his grandson and his unwavering belief in his future.
George will be interred at Barrancas National Cemetery this July when all family members are available to attend. Details will follow regarding this ceremony as well as a possible celebration of life gathering, where stories (and likely a few scratch tickets) will be shared in his honor.
He will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever loved.
Madonna McCarthy
April 18, 2025, 1:44 am
So so sad! Know my thoughts and prayers are with you all. 🥲🥲🤗🤗🙏🙏
Glenda Tatman
April 19, 2025, 11:46 pm
Dear JD & family,
Your dad was a great friend to our family and we will miss him forever.
Love
Tom & Glenda Tatman & family
Sarah Allison
April 24, 2025, 4:58 pm
George was our neighbor for 15 years. I could always trust him to be there if I needed anything while my husband traveled. He treated our kids like they were his very own grandkids. They knew they could count on Mr. George to have some chocolate for them. We had lived right next door for 11 years, then we built a house just through the woods. And still my youngest son would take his friends to see Mr. George for some of that chocolate. I always loved his stories. George experienced a lot of life and was a great storyteller. George will be missed.
Mark Hinchey
May 1, 2025, 5:22 am
My condolences to Elinor and her family, especially Justin and Jared.
Rick
May 1, 2025, 6:44 pm
Dear JD,
We are so sorry for your and your families loss. Rick told me he enjoyed so much talking with your dad the many times he would see him at Publix. Your dads love and the many good memories will never leave you. Cling to these as you keep your eyes on the One above who will walk this journey with you. You are in our prayers.
Rick and Laura Tatum