George Cornelius Ronan, 66, of Gloucester, Virginia, passed away peacefully at his home on August 26, 2025, surrounded by family and close friends, after a long, hard-fought battle with stage 4 esophageal cancer that began in 2023.

George was born and raised in Carteret, New Jersey, on May 12, 1959 to John (Jack) and Margaret Ronan. He grew up with his four siblings: Jim, John, Rosemary, and Peggy. George graduated from Carteret High School in 1977 and remained close with many of his high school friends, many who visited him in his final days.

After high school, George served four years in the Air Force. While in the Air Force, George met his first wife, Yong, and his son, Tony. George was incredibly hardworking in everything he pursued. He proudly passed on his motivation and work ethic to all six of his children. George worked for the Postal Service for 17 years before starting his own business, George Ronan Commercial. When asked what he was most proud of, he said: marrying his wife, Barbara, his children, and starting his business.

George is survived by his wife, Barbara Ronan, and his six children: Tony Harmon (Teresa), Trevor Ronan (Amber), Sabrina Winkler (Charlie), Kimberly Ronan, Maggie Ronan, and Jack Ronan. He was also a “Pop Pop” to eight grandchildren: Lila, Dean, Brynnlee, Harper, Everly, Penelope, Olivia, and George.

Of all his accomplishments in life, nothing made George prouder than his family. His children were his greatest joy and his proudest legacy. He made sure to live a life full of laughter, love, and mischief—the ultimate class clown who kept everyone smiling. To know George was to know a loyal friend, a quick wit, and someone who could turn even the hardest day around with a joke. He was an honest man who always did the right thing. He loved being out on the water fishing and spending time on the golf course. Wherever George was, laughter was sure to follow.

A celebration of George’s life will be held on Sunday, September 7, at 3 p.m. at the Piankatank River Golf Course in Hartfield, Va., where family and friends will gather to share stories, smiles and, of course, plenty of laughter in his honor.

Andrews Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.