George Ernest Cercopely

Entered into eternal rest on the morning of January 18, 2012, George Cercopely, 85, of Charleston, SC, husband of Clara Cercopely. The relatives and friends of Mr. and Mrs. George Cercopely are invited to attend his funeral service at The Church of the Good Shepherd on Saturday, January 21st, 2012 at 10:00 am. Internment will follow at Carolina Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at J.HENRY STUHR, INC. WEST ASHLEY CHAPEL Friday from 5 until 7 pm.

Mr. Cercopely was born on August 14, 1926 in Charleston, S.C. The son of Clarence J. Cercopely and Ruby Cox Cercopely. He was one of twelve children, 7 boys and 5 girls, in a close knit family. He retired from the Charleston Naval Supply Center as Head of a Technical Inspection and Identification, with 40 years and 10 months service and received his education from James Simons Elementary School, Courtney Rivers Jr. High, North Charleston and Murray Vocational High Schools, and the Charleston Naval Shipyard Apprentice School.

George devoted much of his time, efforts and resources to improve the communities, in which he lived. He was a cradle Episcopalian and an active member of the Church of the Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, and for many years sang in the former church choirs. He also served on the Vesteries and many committees. He loved his Lord.
He loved the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing and working in his wife's flower gardens. For many years he was a coach on various area playgrounds of youth sports activities. He also loved amateur fighters; some of whom went on to box in college and a few went professional. In addition, he was a dedicated patriot who loved his country, his family and his church. He had many friends.

George served his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II, in the South Pacific, and earned several medals and battle ribbons. He was an Omar Shriner and a Life Member of the following organizations and activities; The James Island Masonic Lodge #396, a 32nd degree Scottish Rite Mason, The Charleston Elks Lodge #242, the James Island VFW Post #445, the DAV Post #77, the American Legion Post #147, The National Association of Retired Federal Employees, West Ashley Chapter #1013 and the North Charleston Old Friends Club. He was also a Folly Beach Municipal Court Baliff and the Folly Beach Senior Citizens Club and the old Folly Shag Club.

Mr. Cercopely is survived by his wife of 61 years, Clara Owens Cercopely; two sons, George E. Cercopely Jr. and Thomas Edward Cercopely both of Charleston; two daughters, Sharon L. Whaley of Charleston and Donna M. Foster of Greer, SC; one brother, Harold T. Cercopely of Mt. Pleasant; one sister, Ella L. Gaskins of Eutawville SC; nine grandchildren and four great grandchildren, also numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Church of The Good Shepherd at 1393 Miles Dr. Charleston, SC 29407, or the Shriners Childrens Hospital at 950 W. Farris Road, Greenville, SC 29605, or to the Solaris Hospice at 2900 N. Main Street, Suite E, Moncks Corner, SC 29461.