George Matthew Israel III, the former mayor of Macon, passed away on Sunday, July 26, 2026, at the age of 78. His contributions to the community and the significant roles he played in local leadership will be remembered as a lasting legacy.
Funeral Arrangements
A celebration of his life will take place on Sunday, August 2, 2026, at Hart’s at the Cupola, located at 6324 Peake Road in Macon, starting at 4 p.m. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during visitation on Saturday, August 1, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the same venue.
Career Milestones
George Israel served as mayor of Macon from 1979 to 1987, following his time as a city councilman from 1975 to 1979. An influential leader in the business community, he held the position of chairman and CEO at the Georgia Chamber of Commerce. His leadership and vision earned him the title of “Georgian of the Year” from Georgia Trend Magazine in 2006, recognizing his substantial impact on the state’s economic development and community engagement.
Born on February 10, 1948, in Macon, Israel was the son of George Matthew Israel Jr. and Margaret Hutchins Israel. He pursued his early education at T.D. Tinsley and Rosa Taylor Elementary Schools, later graduating from Lanier High School for Boys in 1966. His dedication to education was evident as he financed his college studies by selling cookware, ultimately earning degrees from Middle Georgia College in Cochran and the University of Georgia.
Throughout his extensive career, Israel excelled in various prominent positions, including President and CEO of Potomac Corporation, CEO of Fickling and Walker, and CEO of Secure Health Plans of Georgia. He also made significant contributions as a board member for YKK and was appointed President and CEO of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce in 2002. His leadership within the Macon Chamber of Commerce and the Macon Economic Development Commission bolstered local businesses and fostered economic growth.
Community Contributions
Israel was instrumental in establishing significant community events, such as cutting the ribbon for the inaugural Cherry Blossom Festival in Macon in 1983. His involvement extended beyond local initiatives as he served on various statewide advisory boards, including the State of Georgia Commission on Privatization and the Georgia Military Affairs Committee, contributing to the strategic growth and policies that shaped the region.
George is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Pam Witherington Israel, along with their daughter, Katie Beth Israel, and son, George Matthew Israel IV. He is also survived by four granddaughters—Greta O’Hara (Brandon), Kiya Israel, Matilda “Tille” Israel, Eleanor Israel—as well as one grandson, George Matthew “Quinn” Israel V, a great-granddaughter, Charlotte O’Hara, and two brothers, David (Juliet) and Walter Israel, in addition to several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, Harold Israel.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial contributions be made to the American Camellia Society at 100 Massee Lane Road, Fort Valley, Georgia, or to a charitable organization of personal choice. For those wishing to express their condolences, please visit the website of Hart’s Mortuary at the Cupola, who are handling the arrangements.