George M. Shiflett - Obituary

eorge Mckinley Shiflett celebrated a long-anticipated homecoming to meet his Savior April 15, 2018. George was reunited with the love of his life, Emma Jean Shiflett exactly six-months from her homecoming. He was also reunited with his daughter, Debra Olshaw (d February 7, 2017) and grandson, Joshua Olshaw (d October 24, 2015). George was delivered at home June 29, 1923 in the village of Whitehall, Virginia. He was the oldest and last surviving child of George A. and Bertha Shiflett. George faced many hardships growing up. There were few material possessions, but the family had a strong Christian faith that sustained them. George told of one year receiving an orange for Christmas and how much he treasured that gift. When George was in high school his entire family was mysteriously poisoned by arsenic. George suffered the worst effects. He became paralyzed from the neck down. Determined to continue his high school education, he was tutored at home, dictating all of his assignments. He graduated from high school in a wheelchair and by his college graduation walked across the stage on crutches. He never complained about the disability or chronic pain, instead he focused on regaining his skills. George was the first in his family to graduate from college, the class of 1946 at the University of Virginia. He moved to Annapolis, Maryland using his chemistry degree at the Naval Engineering Experiment Station, from which he retired in 1981 after a 34-year career. In 1952 George was introduced to Jean Whisman on a blind date arranged by their mutual friend, Yvonne Moreland (Burns). George started to tutor Jean in math, the sessions evolved into dates revolving around church activities. They exchanged vows on July 2, 1953 at the First Church of the Nazarene in Annapolis, Maryland. Many of those attending the service remained life-long friends. George and Jean established their home in Lindamoor and welcomed daughters, Coni and Debi into the family. Over the years George shared his interest in gardening, travel, photography, basket weaving and bird carving with the girls. He had a magic touch with plants and patiently nursed plant cuttings that others found too difficult to pursue. He and Jean enjoyed several cross-country trips in their RV van. George did all of the driving; one time, with a broken pelvis, he drove all the way from Washington State to Maryland. He was a devoted Christian and over the years in his quiet, unassuming way served his Lord as a church board member, trustee and, for years, as treasurer. George never turned down an opportunity to serve his Lord and was often heard singing very off key his favorite hymns. George is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Coni and Bob Giannini and their children, Neva Giannini (and Jan Henriksen), Tessa Giannini, and Mara (and Joseph Collinson lV); Son-in-law, Bob Olshaw and granddaughter, Abigail Olshaw also survive him. A very special “adopted daughter,” Fran Fridrich provided loving care and support to George and Jean for over four years. They both greatly benefitted from her compassionate care. The staff of Brightview South River and Hospice of the Chesapeake kept him comfortable during his final days. Many friends and family visited and were touched by his sweet spirit. A private burial and family service will be held at a later date. Donations may be made to Hospice of the Chesapeake. Please take a moment to sign the family's online guestbook by visiting the link on this page.