George Everan Witherington

Obituary for George Everan Witherington

George Everan Witherington, affectionately known by many as "Uncle Bubby," passed away peacefully on October 3, 2025, in Auburndale, Florida, at the age of 82.

Born on June 6, 1943, in New Orleans, Louisiana, George spent most of his life in Auburndale and Orlando Florida, where he grew up and eventually built a life rooted in family, faith, and his passion for boats. A skilled boat builder by trade, George poured his heart into his work and took great pride in his craftsmanship. Whether on a lake or out in the open ocean, he was happiest when surrounded by fast boats and the people he loved most.

George was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Janet Witherington. He was a proud father to his daughters, Janet Smith and Kathy Witherington, and a loving stepfather to Laura Barns, Sandra Warren, Patricia Hughes, Patrick Hughes Jr., and Annette Hughes. George was blessed with 11 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren and 5 great-great-grandchildren. George was also a cherished brother to Lamar Witherington.

He was preceded in death by his parents George and Mattie Witherington and siblings Patricia McCarty, Marie Gaynor, Arville Witherington, Gayle Steverson, and Terry Witherington.

A lifelong member of First Baptist Church, George’s faith was an important part of his life. He led by example, teaching those around him the values of love, hard work, and loyalty. “The lessons he taught us, whether with words or actions, will live on through everyone who knew him.”

George will be remembered most for the deep love he had for his family, and for the joy he found in boating adventures with friends and loved ones. His legacy lives on in the stories told on docks and decks, and in the waves of every lake he once called home.

A celebration of George’s life will be held at the Polk City Activity Center, located at 203 Lakeshore Dr., Polk City, FL 33868, Sunday, October 19, 2025, from 1:00pm till 4:00pm. All who knew and loved him are welcome to attend and share in remembering a life so beautifully lived.