George Roy Phares, age 81, born March 29, 1937, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, June 6, 2018.  George passed peacefully at Grant Memorial Hospital with his family by his side.  He was born and lived on the Phares' Farm near Circleville, WV.  After graduation from Circleville High School in 1955, he moved to Ohio where he held numerous jobs from hospital aide to pipe fitter.  However, George was born to farm, returned home in 1961 and farmed the rest of his life.  He also sold Endless Tread Garden Tractors by displaying them on the back of his truck through parades.  Even in later years, although physically not able, he would have dreams about farming and shared his vast knowledge with his farm family.  Just last week he tried to sell a garden tractor to his daughter.

George married Sharon Carr on June 7, 1964, who also shared his love of the farm, and they started a family shortly thereafter.  George and Sharon had five children:  Luci Raines (husband Bill), Benjamin Phares, Amy Phares, Neil Phares (wife Marcie), Melinda Sherman (husband Britt).  They have seven grandchildren:  Ashlee Ratcliffe, Courtnie Butler, Austin Phares, Tyler Phares, Hannah Phares, Madison Phares and Landon Phares.  They also have four great-grandchildren:  Laken, Kendall, Brynn and Reese.

George was a man with many talents.  He was blessed with the ability to repair any piece of equipment, and his memory rarely failed him even in his 80's.  His witty one liners created laughter in everyone he met, and his mischievous grin made us wonder what we were in for next.  George's gift of gab never stopped at a stranger.  He never hesitated to give anything to anyone, including the shirt off his back if it was needed.  His caring kind heart continued to beat strong for 81 years and his love for his family surmounted all obstacles.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 – 8:00 PM Saturday, June 9, 2018 at North Fork Baptist Church where a funeral service will be held at 3:00 PM Sunday, June 10 with Pastors Roger Gorby and Mark McCallister officiating.  He will be buried at North Fork Memorial Cemetery at Riverton, WV.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Pendleton County High School Future Farmers of America, P. O. Box 40, Franklin, WV 26807.