A Journey of Faith, Family and Friends
Although his official diaconate ministry lasted only 26 days, Von George inspired people across the Lehigh Valley and beyond, with his deep faith, courage, and service to God, his family and his country. Deacon George died on September 5th from advanced pancreatic cancer which he battled during the final year of a six-year journey to become a permanent deacon.
College friends, who have loved and admired Von and Jane for more than 40 years, created the Von T. and Jane George Diaconate Endowment Fund with the Catholic Foundation after Von was ordained a deacon in a special ceremony on August 10th. It was born from a profound desire to support those called to serve as deacons, and to perpetuate Von’s mission of service to his Church and his community.
A Beacon of Hope for Future Generations of Deacons
Jeff Babey and Terre McFillen Hall, friends and founders of the fund, were deeply moved by Von’s resilience and the devotion Von and Jane had for each other. For this reason, they felt it was important to honor both Von and Jane with the naming of the fund.
“Jane was so supportive and committed to Von’s calling to this ministry,” Babey said. “They did everything together. They raised a beautiful family, served their community, and advanced the mission of their faith.”
The endowment fund stands as a beacon of hope, ensuring that future generations of deacons receive the education, formation, and resources they need to serve their parishes and communities with the same passion and dedication Von exemplified.
Although Von’s journey took a challenging turn when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, he remained steadfast in his devotion to his faith.
“He inspired everyone around him with his courage and unwavering trust in God’s plan,” McFillen Hall said.
As Von said in a recent article in The Morning Call, “You just have to be open to letting God’s will work in you.”
Babey and McFillen Hall knew that by establishing this fund, they were keeping Von’s legacy alive. Each donation, each prayer, and each new deacon inspired by Von’s story is a testament to his enduring influence.
In honoring Deacon Von George, the Von T. and Jane George Diaconate Endowment Fund has become more than just a tribute—it is a promise that his legacy of family, community, and love for the mission of the Church will continue to inspire and uplift many generations to come.