George H. Messenger

George Herbert Messenger, age 85, passed away on Monday, November 18, 2024 from MDS complications at the Anne Arundel Medical Center. A long-time Bowie, Maryland resident, George was the loving husband of Noreen, who preceded him in death, and the beloved father of Kathleen Bryant (Dennis), John Messenger (Mary Ann), Theresa Hayburn (John), James Messenger, and Eileen Snyder (Bryan). George was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Loretta Messenger, and his brother, John Messenger. George was the proud grandfather of 25 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. 

A devout Catholic, George was born on November 21, 1938 in Cornwall, New York. After graduating from eighth grade at St. Thomas of Canterbury, he attended St. Patrick’s High School in Newburgh, earning honors and excelling as an athlete in both basketball and baseball. George graduated in 1960 from Providence College with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Transportation Corps. He also graduated from the U.S. Army War College.

George enjoyed daily Mass, and he was an active member of the Knights of Columbus (Sacred Heart Council). George served as Grand Knight, Deputy Grand Knight, Chancellor, and Recorder. As Grand Knight, he won the Star Council Award. George also served as the President of the Belair Swim and Racquet Club.

George earned the rank of colonel in the U.S. Army and received the Legion of Merit for his service. He built a career in government service, working at the Internal Revenue Service, Auditor Training Center, and Nuclear Regulatory Commission, where he was promoted to the Senior Executive Service. George was a Certified Internal Auditor and a Certified Logistician.

The funeral Mass for George will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Friday, November 29 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church Chapel, 16501 Annapolis Road, Bowie, Maryland. The family will receive relatives and friends from 10:00-10:45 AM ahead of the funeral Mass.