George Francis Gesell

George Fracnis Gesell, age 77 of Taneytown Maryland passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, September 27, 2026. Born, March 13, 1949, he was the son of the late John Francis and Margaret Gesell.

George was a talented craftsman who could fix, repair, or create just about anything he set his mind to. He spent 25 years working as a farm machinery mechanic before becoming a cabinet maker, a trade he practiced for another 10 years. His skill with his hands and love of creating eventually led him to open Gesell Custom Upholstery in his hometown of Taneytown. His shop became an important part of his life, and he continued doing the work he loved there until the day of his passing.

Outside of his work, some of George’s happiest times were spent traveling with his beloved wife, Barbara. The two especially enjoyed taking cruises together and made many cherished memories during their travels. George deeply missed Barbara following her passing in January 2023.

Even in death, George was able to help others through the gift of organ donation. Through the Gift of Life Donor Program, his generosity will continue to make a difference in the lives of others—a fitting final act for a man who spent so much of his life using his hands and talents to help those around him.

He his survived by his children, Suzanne Gesell and significant other Roger of Westminster, Maryland, Lawrence Gesell and wife Belinda of Taneytown and Michael Gesell and wife Traci of Spring Hill, Tennessee; stepson, Adam Hobbs of Frederick, Maryland; grandchildren, Megan Kohls and wife Jess of Lineboro, Maryland, Clayton Dell and girlfriend Emily of Manchester, Jordan Gesell and fiancé Nicholas Howorth of Keyamr, Hanna Petrucci and husband Alex of Glen Rock, Pennsylvania Ryan Wheler and fiancée Erin of Hanover, Conner Gesell and wife Andrea of New Bloomfield, and Andrew Gesell of Mesa Arizona; great-grandchildren, Ryleigh, Aria-Rain, Leighton, Nash, Nate and Tatum; siblings, Carroll Gesell, Ada Nuckles and Ray Gesell.

Besides his wife Barbara Gesell he is predeceased by his sister, Edna Haines, Betty Crown and Nancy Watt.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Gift of Life Donor Program, 401 North 3rd Street Philadelphia, PA 19123 or at www.donors1.org/give