George O. Tamblyn III

June 24, 1937 – July 7, 2024

George O. Tamblyn III, an adventurous spirit with a dedication to supporting countless family, friends, associates and students toward their best lives, passed away peacefully on July 7th. He was born June 24, 1937 in Westchester County, New York.

George’s journey through life was marked by a deep passion for education and justice, and a relentless curiosity about the world. He graduated from Colgate University and went on to earn his Juris Doctorate from Cornell Law School, later earning a master’s degree in history from University of Edinburgh and a master’s degree in African American Studies from the University of Washington. His career was as diverse as it was impactful, spanning from serving as a flight attendant to practicing law to teaching college history to practicing law, again.

George was ahead of his time in his acceptance and respect for all people and was instrumental in the creation of BlackPast.org. His love of learning included being an avid reader of history books and regularly advising family, friends, acquaintances and people with whom he had chance encounters toward higher education. Over the course of time, he and Sue opened their home to more than forty long-term guests.

George is survived by his beloved wife, Sue Tamblyn, and their seven children: Pauline Tamblyn (Kasy Schlick), Heather Tamblyn, George (Geo) O. Tamblyn IV (Heather Maloney), Valerie Yakich (Tom), Travis Raybold (Shannon), Shannon Raybold and Thelma Somers (Nate). He is also survived by his three brothers: Rowdie Tamblyn (Carolyn), Peter Tamblyn (Cathy) and Graham Tamblyn (Kathy). His legacy continues through his 14 grandchildren and one great-grandson, each of whom he cherished deeply.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to BlackPast.org or the American Civil Liberties Union.

George, your passion for learning and your zest for life will continue to inspire us all. Rest in peace, knowing that your legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of those you influenced so profoundly.