George Elrod, age 80, of Gadsden passed away on July 6,2026. He was born September 15, 1945. Mr. Elrod lived a life of devotion to his family and had a love of sports. George graduated from Emma Samson High School and attended Snead State Community College. He was a long-time member of First Baptist Church of Gadsden and was committed to serving there in many capacities. George was honored to be on the”1958” Little League World Series Baseball Team that represented Etowah County. He was a standout athlete at Emma Sansom High School, in basketball and baseball and received a scholarship in both sports to play at Snead State Community College. He played church basketball and softball for many years for the First Baptist Church of Gadsden. George officiated high school basketball in Etowah County for 25 years and was proud to be picked to officiate several State Basketball Tournaments, and officiated girls’ volleyball before retiring. He worked at Goodyear Tire and Rubber for 35 years.
Mr. Elrod is survived by his wife of 61 years, Janice “Jan” Jones Elrod, children; Geoff (Wendy) Elrod, Greg Elrod, Jana (Chris) Bradford, Lana (Tony) Calvert, Grandchildren; Jacob (Abigail) Elrod, James Parker Humphries, Reid Elrod, Reilly Elrod, Claire Beth (Reid) Gavin, Carter Calvert, Camille Calvert, Noah Bradford, Taylor Bradford, great-grandchild ; Mary Calvert Gavin, Brother; Jimmy (Kathy) Elrod, brother-in-law; Jimmy (Anita) Jones; sister-in-Law, Marilyn Jones, special sister-n-law; Rose Mary Hyatt, and numerous nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents; N.W. And Orlean Elrod, brother; Glen H. Elrod Sr., sister; Maxine Elrod Smith, Father and Mother-in-law; James and Virginia Jones; and brothers-in-law; Glenn Jones and Terry Hyatt.
The family wishes to express special thanks to the staff of Gentiva Hospice, especially to Morgan, Brittney, and Courtney; and to all family and friends that have reached out during this difficult time.
A celebration of life will be held later.
