With profound sadness and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, and friend, George Northcutt, at the age of 75.
George is survived by his two loving daughters, Natalie Harris and Stephanie Northcutt; son-in-law, Michael Harris; and his two cherished grandsons, Chase and Brody Harris, who brought immense joy to his life.
Raised in Satellite Beach, Florida and settled in the Orlando area as an adult, George lived a life defined by courage, faith, hard work, creativity, laughter, generosity, and a profound love for his daughters. His full-time career was fighting crime and helping the community as a Police Officer (which he later retired from, after 25 years of service), but his real passion was what he did with his time outside of work. He was a Renaissance Man, using his skills and talents across many different hobbies: knife making, leather craftsmanship, Bass fishing, tile/mosaic laying, garden landscaping, and stone carving/sculpting. He loved being outside-watching sunsets over the water, grilling at home with friends and family, listening to music by Bertie Higgins, relaxing on the porch, the sound of Purple Martin birds singing, and the wonderful smell of Gardenia and Jasmine blooms. He also enjoyed watching college football on TV (mostly FSU), decorating for Halloween, ALL THINGS Christmas, a rugged Indiana Jones look, wearing many different styles of hats, making others laugh, having a good time, and above all else…his family.
Because his father was in the military and stationed overseas at the time, George spent his early childhood in Italy, learning to speak Italian with neighborhood kids and celebrating La Befana. He appreciated the Mediterranean culture and it stayed with him into his adult years–the love of flavorful food, fresh air, a good local wine, a beautiful outdoor atmosphere, family gatherings, the arts, and an admiration for the simple things.
The rest of George’s childhood and adolescent memories were created while living in Satellite Beach, Florida. He was a Catholic altar boy who attended Catholic school as a child and throughout most of his high school years. Outside of Mass and school, he could be found running over sand dunes on his way to the beach, spending time body surfing and skimboarding (further lightening his already handsome blonde hair), skateboarding, training and playing with his beloved German Shepherd named Runt, participating in sports such as football and boxing, pursuing girls, and cracking crab shells. While living on the Space Coast, George was quite fortunate to have witnessed some of the Apollo mission rocket launches firsthand from the invitation-only front area bleachers of NASA’s Merritt Island launch complex. US Presidents were also in attendance, along with his three brothers William R. Northcutt, Robert E. Northcutt Jr, Jay G. Northcutt, his mother Mary Jane Northcutt (deceased), and father Robert E. Northcutt Sr (Retired USAF Base Commander of Patrick Air Force Base, deceased).
George delighted in making others laugh and feel welcome in his presence, even when deep down inside he actually preferred smaller, tight knit circles. He had a strong personality, knew what he wanted, and wasn’t afraid to say it. He was also a caring, kind, and concerned family man that always wanted the best for himself and for those that he loved dearly. His hospitality and generosity knew no bounds. He was constantly wanting to help family and friends in any way possible, and donating to charities as often as he could. To earn his trust and respect was an honor. To eat his food was a pleasure. To receive his handshake or a hug from him were the warmest of moments that you truly looked forward to.
George’s faith in God got him through life, so it was comforting to know that his receiving of communion was the last solid item that he had prior to the end of his time here on Earth. He’s resting in peace now.
Today, while we grieve his loss, we also celebrate the incredible life that George lived and his legacy. A life filled with perseverance and devotion; memories rich with laughter and love. May Heaven’s gates open wide for him and accept his soul to be with The Lord. We love you, Dad…now and always!