George Humphreys

In Loving Memory of George Humphreys (1944–2025)

George Vernon Humphreys, age 80, passed away peacefully at home after almost a year-long battle with pancreatic cancer, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and devotion. In his final days, he was surrounded by his wife Cheryl, their children, grandchildren, family, and many friends. He is survived by the love of his life, Cheryl, and their beautiful, blended families, along with his brother, John (Pam) Humphreys. Cheryl and George became even more connected after he donated a kidney to her in 2006.

George had four children before meeting Cheryl, Doug (Veronica) Humphreys, Jeff (Toni) Humphreys, Josh (Heather) Humphreys, and Angelia (Kristian) Orr. Cheryl’s daughters, whom George loved like his own, Shannon (John) Orput and Melonie (David) Wallace.

George was a proud grandfather to twenty-one grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. The Humphreys grandchildren, Dani, Delta, Justin, Coleman, Tyler, Dallas, Jordan, Jocelyn, Victoria, Gwen, George, Lucy, Grace, Hayden, Carver, Ellis, and great-granddaughters, Isla and Carly. From Cheryl’s side of the family, Elizabeth, Jonathon, Tessa, Delaney, Makenzey, and great-grandson, Elijah. His greatest treasures were his children and grandchildren, and he found purpose and happiness in every moment spent with them.

A man of deep faith, George loved God with all his heart. George and Cheryl met some of their best friends at Prairie Ridge Church. They enjoyed going out to eat, playing cards, and spending time with them.

He honorably served his country during the Vietnam War, a testament to his courage and patriotism. George worked for the City of Des Moines in the Engineering department for 35 years, retiring from there.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Marie Humphreys; and his brother Stuart, whose memories he held close.

George was blessed to be part of two loving blended families, each of which enriched his life in unique and meaningful ways. George’s life was a narrative of faith, family, and service. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those he touched, and his memory will continue to inspire kindness, strength, and love.

Family will greet guests Wednesday, October 1, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Avenue in Des Moines. To celebrate George’s love of the Hawks, the family asks guests to please wear Iowa Hawkeye gear to George’s visitation. Memorial service will take place the following day, Thursday, October 2, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. also at Hamilton’s. George will be laid to rest following at 11:00 a.m. at Iowa Veterans Cemetery, 34024 Veterans Memorial Drive in Adel where he will receive full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to St. Croix Hospice or directly to the family.

The family would like to thank St. Croix Hospice for keeping George at home during his battle and for the empathy and compassion they showed him and Cheryl. They would also like to thank CornerStone, Aging Resources, and Mission Cancer, who all walked beside him in his journey.

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