George Silvernell

Obituary of George Russell Silvernell, Esq.
October 25, 1930 – December 31, 2023

George Russell Silvernell, Esq. lifelong resident of Unadilla, New York, world traveler and community lawyer in Oneonta, passed away on Sunday, December 31, 2023.

George was born on October 25, 1930, in Oneonta, New York, the son of George Wirt and Gertude Genung Silvernell.   Beginning and ending his life in Unadilla, New York, he collected a long list of acquaintances who will tell you a different story of how he made them smile.   Proudly gaining his Eagle Scout status from Unadilla Boy Scout Troup 201, George continued to soar, graduating from Hamilton College, serving in the Korean War, and earning his J.D. from University of Virginia Law School.   Then, he rounded his flight back to Oneonta, where he opened his own Law Practice serving the community for the rest of his life.   Whether from a Real Estate closing or Will signing, or somewhere along the road of his over sixty years of practicing law, an eclectic list of clients and friends will remember him with a returned laugh and smile.

He was a devoted supporter of the arts from volunteering his eloquent organ playing to various churches, performing as Choirmaster and organ player for St. Matthews Episcopal Church, being one of the founding supporters of the West Kortwright Center, Catskill Symphony Orchestra, Orpheus Theatre, Glimmerglass Opera Theater, and countless local artists throughout the area.     He also enjoyed spending time at the Oneonta Rotary Club.

He is survived by his great niece and nephew, Eleanor Delia Feinstein and William Ryan Ganley as well as Ryan Ganley, Elizabeth’s husband.   George was a well-loved Uncle to Charlotte Ruth Tims of Stowe, Vermont and Elizabeth May Tims Ganley of Boonton, New Jersey, and devoted Brother to Sarah-May Silvernell Tims and her husband, Fred Tims of Springfield Center, New York and friend to George Dando. With love, the family will continue to embrace the charm and sparkle George spread throughout his lifetime.

A service will be held on Saturday, January 6 at Saint Matthews Episcopal Church in Unadilla, New York at 1:00 p.m.