Orlando “Ronnie” George, who served as president of Delaware Tech Community College for 19 years after serving as a long-time member of the Delaware State Legislature, died Monday.
George began his career at Del Tech in 1969 as a mathematics teacher and went on to serve as dean, assistant campus director, dean of education, assistant campus director, vice president and campus director before becoming the school’s fourth president in 1995.
Prior to becoming School Superintendent, George served on the Wilmington City Council from 1972-1974 and then as a member of the Delaware State Assembly from 1974-1995.
During his time in Congress, he served as Speaker of the House, Chairman of the Joint Finance Committee, and Minority Leader.
U.S. Senator Chris Coons offered his condolences.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Orlando George Jr., known throughout Delaware as Lonnie George. He served Delawareans in many roles, from legislative service as a Wilmington City Councilman, to state legislator, co-chair of the Joint Finance Committee and Speaker of the House of Representatives, to serving in multiple roles building Delaware Tech Community College to its current stature and ultimately leading it as its president. It is impossible to overstate the importance of Lonnie's impact on Delaware Tech, as he helped lift Delaware's economy and strengthen the workforce of the First State. Even if we didn't know anything else about Lonnie, we knew how deeply he loved Delaware and its people. His dedication to Delaware every day should be an example and inspiration to us all.”
A funeral service will be held on June 3, 2024 from 4:00-8:00 PM at the Carriage House in Rockwood Park, followed by a private interment.
A memorial service will be held on June 6, 2024 from 5-7 pm at Delaware Tech Community College's Orlando J. George (Wilmington) Campus.
George was 78 years old.
