George Baxter Harper III, Charlestown, Ind., passed away April 1, 2026, in hospice care at Baptist East Hospital, Louisville, Ky., with family by his side, after a hard-fought battle with pneumonia. He was 86.

Born on November 25, 1939, in Toledo, Ohio, to George B. Harper Jr. and Catherine (Arnold) Harper, he grew up in Augusta, Ga., and went on to attend the University of Georgia, earning a master’s degree in journalism.

George lived a full and meaningful life marked by his love for family and the simple joys that bring people together. He dedicated much of his career to teaching communications at several universities in the U.S. and Hong Kong, where he inspired students with his passion for the written word. He later retired as editor of the News Democrat in Carrollton, Ky. Never one to sit still for long, George soon stepped into a new chapter, working as a bartender and enjoying the opportunity to continue meeting and talking with people from all walks of life.

George will be remembered as a gifted storyteller who could capture the attention of anyone lucky enough to listen. Whether sharing memories, humor, or wisdom, he had a way of making every moment feel special. He found joy in reading, puzzles, exercising, traveling, playing Pac-Man, hiding his Skittles, and spending time with his beloved pets.

Above all else, George cherished his family. He is survived by the love of his life and his wife of 50 years, Laurel Harper; his daughter, Brooke Reed (Michael); his granddaughter, Kaeli McCartin (Douglas); grandson, DeMian Hedges (Emma Blackman); brother, William “Bill” Harper; his brothers-in-law, Jeffrey Hoskins, James Hoskins (Shannon), and Donald Hoskins; sisters-in-law, Linda Riffe (Michael) and Kazuko Hoskins; niece Ashlee Hoskins, who shared many family trips to Pigeon Forge and a mutual love of great coffee, and numerous other nieces and nephews who will carry on his memory.

He is also survived by his loyal dogs, Max and Cato, and his spirited cat, Karma.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother-in-law, Robert “Bobby” Hoskins; sister-in-law, Theresa Harper; and his mother- and father-in-law, Robert “Bob” and Joann Hoskins.

George leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and stories that will live on in all who knew him. He was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed. Family and friends are invited to join in a celebration of George’s life on May 31, 2026, from 1:00–4:00 p.m. at Hidden Creek Golf Club in Sellersburg, Indiana.

Arrangements have been entrusted to B&G Mortuary Service. Please share a memory.