George C. Artis

George C. Artis, 82 of Indian Head, Maryland.

George Artis was born on June 27, 1943, in Eden, North Carolina, to the late Cleo Artis and Corina Scales Artis Spencer. From an early age, George was guided by a strong faith, and his devotion never wavered, reading his Bible each day remained an important part of his daily routine.

George was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved son, Derrick Cleophus Artis; his son-in-law, Charles Brazil Jr.; and his sister, Ruby Hoover. Though they are no longer with us, their memories always remained close to his heart.

George graduated from Douglass High School in Madison, North Carolina, in June 1962. After graduation, he moved to Washington, D.C., where he began building a life rooted in hard work, family, and community. George was blessed with two beautiful children, Derrick Artis and Daphne Artis Brazil, who brought him immense pride and joy.

On October 13, 1969, George began his illustrious career with UPS as a dedicated and personable driver—so well-known along his route that everyone seemed to know his name. Over the years, his commitment and work ethic earned him numerous recognitions. George was inducted into the prestigious UPS Circle of Honor; an accomplishment he proudly joked was even better than being in the NFL or Hollywood Hall of Fame. UPS frequently recognized George for his dedication, awarding him Driver of the Month and acknowledging him as one of the most hardworking and committed shop stewards. It was said that George truly “bled brown,” a testament to his loyalty and pride in his work.

George met and married the love of his life, Gwen, on August 9, 1975. When he married Gwen, he also embraced her family as his own. George and Gwen shared 50 wonderful years together, a union that reflected love, loyalty, true partnership and commitment beyond measure.

George loved his family, his friends, and simply enjoying life. He especially loved music, dancing, and sports. He cherished the playful football rivalries with many of his in-laws. For many years, George was a devoted Dallas Cowboys fan and took great joy in teasing his brothers-in-law who supported Washington’s team. However, later in life, George made the surprising switch to become a Washington Commanders fan—though some family members still can’t quite understand why.

George entered into eternal rest on March 9, 2026, at the age of 82. He leaves behind to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Gwen, of 50 years; his devoted daughter, Daphne Brazil; his brothers, William Spencer (Barbara) and Robert Lee Spencer Jr.; five grandchildren, Bianca Brazil (Alex), Brittney Brazil, Layla Brazil, Darien Artis, and Devin Artis; four sisters-in-law; one brother-in-law; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, and godchildren who will forever treasure his smile and memory.

Services will be held on Friday, March 20, 2026 in the Chapel of Thornton Funeral Home, P.A. 3439 Livingston Road, Indian Head, Maryland 20640. Viewing, 10:00 a.m. until time of the Celebration of Life, 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in memory of George C. Artis to the Alzheimer’s Association to support the search for treatments and a cure for dementia.

Alzheimer’s AssociationP.O. Box 96011Washington, DC 20090-6011Phone: 800-272-3900https://www.alz.org/get-involved-now/donate

On Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at 11:00 am, please click on the link below to live stream the service.

Please make sure when viewing the services that the volume located in the right lower corner (where it says "live") on the viewing screen is turned up (the bars should be blue).

The streaming will begin after the final family viewing. Therefore, there may be a delay before the service appears on the screen. Thank you.

https://www.thorntonfuneralhomepa.com/livestream