George Spellman is being mourned by his many friends, in particular those from the equestrian world who knew him through the Devon Horse Show.
A celebration of his life will be held Sunday, Jan. 15 at 11 a.m. at the Class of 1944 Chapel at the Episcopal Academy. In lieu of flowers, donations to his memory may be made to the Garrett Williamson Foundation or the Arbor Day Foundation.
“If you’ve shown at the Devon Horse Show in any capacity you know of George. He could be found making all of the `Devon Magic’ happen behind the scenes in his red shirt,” Nina Shaffer stated in a tribute on Facebook.
“Whether it was driving a tractor, the water truck, a golf cart, the skid steer, dressed in `Devon Drag’ for Dressage at Devon or…helping the food vendor; to say George wore many hats is truly an understatement.
George was an avid gardener, a talented chef, an accomplished hunter,and a mentor to many. An outgoing and generous man who showed his love for family, friends, and neighbors through action. His acts of kindness ranged from baking custom birthday cakes to mitigating catastrophes of all sorts. On speed dial for many, George always made himself available for anyone that found themselves in a pinch. At times, George was there before you even knew you needed him.
He was the epitome of a self-made man and dedicated his life to helping others. A master of many trades, George was one of a kind. In his final moments, he was doing what he loved best: boots on, laced tight, he seized the day, guiding his team, taking on the latest challenge.
He is survived by his wife,Jodi; his daughter, Catherine, and his brother, Matthew Spellman.