George Elliot French, 84 of Hyannis, MA died unexpectedly at Cape Cod Hospital on October 4, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was born on February 22, 1941 in Ipswich, MA to Jerome C. and Abbie E. (Lander) French. George graduated from Gloucester High School, attended Bentley College and served in the U.S. Army. On May 1,1965, he married Ruth Gaffney and they had three children, Michael, Terri and Kelley.

George grew up in Essex and was a hard worker, a people person and wore many hats throughout his life. He worked at his family’s bowling alley, later as a milkman and eventually as a postal worker for 30 years until his retirement. While working for the post office, he also served as a volunteer firefighter/EMT for many years, had a side hustle mowing lawns, collecting trash and making dump runs, and he umpired and coached baseball. He always got a laugh when he showed up at games with a team piled into his mail truck! He knew and was known by many and would always greet friends and strangers alike with a smile and a wave.

In addition to his jobs, George belonged to various groups and organizations. He was a longtime member of the American Legion, the Masons (on both Cape Anne and Cape Cod), a member or the Osterville Men’s Club serving as Membership Chairman and an avid member of the South Congregational Church. George was always eager to help others in any way he could. He will be missed by so many, especially his family and friends.

Along with his parents, George was predeceased by his sister Gloria, his daughter Terri and his son-in-law Lawrence “Larry” Flattes, his uncles, various cousins and a nephew. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, son Michael and his wife Michele, daughter Kelley, grandchildren Aaron Steele, Brooke Miller-Steele, her husband Cody and a great granddaughter, June Ivy Miller-Steele as well as several cousins and a niece.

A Memorial Service and reception will be held October 21, 2025 at 11:00am at the South Congregational Church, Centerville, MA and a graveside service will be held on October 23, 2025 at 1:00 pm in the Spring Street Cemetery, Essex, MA followed by a reception at Woodman’s Lobster Trap in Essex. All are welcome and invited to attend either or both services and receptions. In lieu of flowers, donations in George’s name may be made to the South Congregational Church, Centerville MA or Essex Fire Company, Essex, MA.

Thinking of you all, so very sorry

It was a pleasure to get to know George. I will remember his kindness and caring nature. May he rest in peace.