George J. McBriar

George John McBriar, born on February 14, 1954, in Blawnox, Pennsylvania, to George Frederick McBriar and Helen Panza McBriar, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on July 23, 2024. Born on Valentine's Day, George embodied love and compassion for his family, friends, and the community he cherished. A graduate of the University of Pittsburgh in 1976, George married the love of his life, Barbara Ann Taylor, on September 16, 1972. George was a devoted and loving husband who dedicated himself fully to his loved ones. He is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara Ann McBriar; their three daughters: Aleta (Brian) Balcer, Belinda (Mark) Evans, and Kira (Thom) Rosamilia; his grandchildren, James, Ashlyn, Dominic, and Alex; his mother-in-law Lillian Taylor; his sister, Helen (Honey) Coward; and his brother, Bill McBriar. Professionally, George served as the president of the renowned Clark Candy Company before launching his own warehousing and distribution business, which he successfully ran for the past 20 years. His dedication to his community was unwavering. Beginning his fire service career in Sharpsburg in 1975, George went on to serve 32 years as the fire chief in Blawnox, PA, forging lifelong friendships with John Simmons, Eddie Benaglio, John Lattimore and the late Wayne Fusaro. In 2010, George founded the Allegheny County Swift Water Rescue Team, which provided rescue coverage for 745 square miles of waterways in the county and was regularly deployed for natural disasters, including Hurricanes Irene and Sandy. On February 11, 2021, George was honored by the Blawnox Council for his dedication to fire rescue in the area. George's presence was a cornerstone of his community. Known for his compassion, calm demeanor, and sense of humor, he could bring a smile to anyone's face. His joy and dedication touched many lives, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 25, 2024 from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday, July 26, 2024 from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Thomas M. Smith Funeral Home & Crematory Ltd; 930 Center Avenue Blawnox, PA, 15238. Funeral service will be on Saturday, July 27, 2024, 10 a.m. at the funeral home, family and friends are asked to please meet at the funeral home at 9 a.m.

George J. McBriar

February 14, 1954 - July 23, 2024