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George J. Theiss, Jr., 68, of Salisbury, North Carolina, died on Friday, July 13th, 2018, surrounded by his family and close friends.
He is predeceased by his parents George, Sr. (2002) and Betty (2017)Theiss, brother Bill (2016) and beloved grandson Eli Emanuel, age 8 (2016).
He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Diana (Hopkins) Theiss.
Surviving: a son Justin and his wife Mirah; daughter Carrie and her husband Christian and two beautiful granddaughters Eneida and Erendira.
Also surviving is his sister Barbara Dressler and family as well as sister-in-law Patty Theiss and family.
Additional loving family include: Sister-in-law Linette Carroll (Bob, RIP) and nephew Randy; brother-in-law Rick and Patty Hopkins and family; sister-in-law Lisa and Rich Vanni and brother-in-law Bix Dimeo, husband of Sue Hopkins (RIP) and current wife Julia and family.
George made his living as a master carpenter and beautifully renovated their retirement home in their new state of North Carolina as well as the many homes he improved during his work years in New Jersey.
Most notably, George was a pivotal part of the Jersey Shore music scene. He began his musical career in his teens playing in the popular band The Castiles alongside bandmate Bruce Springsteen.
Recently, a very early song co-written by George and Bruce, entitled “Baby, I” appeared on Bruce’s latest CD, “Chapter and Verse”. It was written when they were 16 years old, in the back seat of a car, on their way to a first ever recording session in May, 1966.
George’s musical career continued throughout his life, focused in the Asbury Park area where so many have contributed over the years.
His bands included the Rusty Chain (joined by his long time carpentry partner, bandmate and dear friend the late Roy Smith), then Cahoots and finally The George Theiss Band. He goes on to join bandmates who have passed: Roy Smith, John Luraschi, John Oeser, Vinnie Maniello, Kurt Fluhr, Bob Alfano, Paul Popkin and Frank Marziotti.
A private gathering will be announced to family and friends in the near future.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the many organizations who were so very helpful during our beloved Eli’s illness: Make-A-Wish, Kisses for Kyle, Ronald McDonald House, Cancer Support Community of Greater Philadelphia and Alex’s Lemonade Stand.
Carolina Cremation is honored to serve the Theiss family. Online condolences may be made at www.carolinacremation.com.
Loren says
So sorry Diane. You spoke so fondly of George. Hugs to you and prayers.
Loren Marter
Suzi says
George was an awesome musician and person, and those of us who knew him miss him terribly. We wish you and your family only the best and hope our love can be of some consolation as you get through these hard times. Love you, Dee.
Machaela Treadway says
Our deepest heart felt sympathies ~ George was an incredible man and we are deeply honored to have had, though short, several wonderful times together filled with laughter and love !
A bright shinning star ~ Our love to His Wife Dee, and their entire family !
Michael and Machaela Treadway
Janna Griggs says
So sorry to hear of his passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers!
grace trezza abamov says
Knew George when we were kids. good looking guy..i was older than him his parents were friends of mine..his dad & my husband love horse racing… .my sincere sympathy i know what it is like to lose the love of ur life..be strong.
Skip says
Thoughts and prayers to the family
Alisa peragine says
Diana, you know the love and respect we had for your sweet George……all I have to do is look around my house….a genius with his carpentry…..love you lady Diana xxxxx please let me know if your up this wayxxxx love and prayers to all of you xxxx
BARBARA WAGNER says
DIANA AND FAMILY,
ONE OF OUR FONDEST MEMORIES IS OF MOMMA SITTING ON HER SWING THAT GEORGE MADE HER WITH CELIA SPELLED OUT ACROSS IT. WE ALWAYS LOVED OUR FAMILY TIME INTER-MINGLING WITH YOUR FAMILY THE LAUGHTER AND LOVE. GEORGE WAS A WILL REMAIN A FREEHOLD TREASURE. GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
Sharon Rivera says
Dearest Diana
My heartfelt condolences to you & your family.
Linda says
To all George’s family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all ! Spending my childhood with George, Billy and Barbara! Neighbors I will never forget! My Freehold Family ! My deepest sympathy.
Linda Matthews Denham
Sharon Lezark says
To the whole Theiss family.
I’ve known Barbara since 4th grade and cannot find the words that express how truly sorry I am for your loss. I pray that you and your family find comfort knowing that so many people love and care about you. May George rest peacefully until we all are together again with our loved ones.
Love Sharon ????
Jack Alt - The Rusty Chain says
Fairwell my friend, Rest with the best. Peace for you and your family.