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George Croffead Obituary

George S. Croffead, M.D., F.A.C.S. CHARLESTON - Entered into eternal rest on the morning of January 6, 2010, Dr. George S. Croffead, Husband of Georgia Pappas Croffead. Residence, Charleston, SC. The relatives and friends of Dr. and Mrs. George S. Croffead are invited to attend the funeral services on Saturday, January 9, 2010 in the Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity at eleven o'clock. Interment will be at Live Oak Memorial Gardens. Friends may call at the Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity on Friday between five and seven o'clock with a Trisagion Memorial Service held at six o'clock. Dr. Croffead was born February 16, 1924 in Charleston, SC, the son of Tom Sterlakos Croffead and May Pierakakos Croffead. Dr. Croffead was a graduate of Charleston High School, attended The Citadel and the College of Charleston. He received a Bachelor of Science degree from the Medical College of South Carolina's School of Pharmacy in 1945 as the first honor graduate, also receiving the Kappa Psi Pharmacy Scholars Key, Lekn-Fink gold medal and the Merck Award. In 1950 he received his Medical Degree from the Medical University of South Carolina. Dr. Croffead completed his internship at Roper Hospital in 1951 and moved to New York for postgraduate studies and residency in Ophthalmology. He interrupted his residency to serve in the US Air Force as a captain and base physician during the Korean War. He completed his residency at New York University-Bellevue Medical Center and became certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology. He started his practice in Charleston in 1957. In 1957, Dr. Croffead was appointed as an instructor at the Medical College of South Carolina in general ophthalmology with a special interest in neuro-ophthalmology. He worked his way up the academic ladder, achieving Clinical Professorship of Ophthalmology and Clinical Associate Professorship of Neurology. Dr. Croffead was a pioneer in his field. He was the first Neuro-Ophthalmologist In South Carolina and one of the first 30 in the country. He was the first to perform retinal detachment surgery utilizing the Indirect Ophthalmoscope in 1957. In March 1976 at St. Francis Hospital, he performed the first intraocular lens implant in Charleston. In 1982, he received the Golden Apple Award in Ophthalmology for outstanding teaching excellence. Dr. Croffead served as Chief of Ophthalmology at St. Francis Hospital from 1967 to 1982. He was vice-chairman of Ophthalmology at Roper Hospital from 1976 to 1982. Dr. Croffead was the first president of the Charleston Ophthalmological Society in 1976. Dr. Croffead was also a community force in that he previously served on the District 20 School Board, the Parks Commission and was a past member of the Board of Directors of the Dock Street Theater. The Greek Orthodox Church played a significant role in Dr. Croffead's life and he played a large and prominent role in the life of the church. Dr. Croffead has held virtually every church office locally and nationally and is a member of the Diocesan Council of the Fifth Diocese of the Greek Orthodox Church of North America and South America. He is a past president of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church of Charleston and member of the parish council for 18 years. He has been a continuous member of the Dioceses of Atlanta Council since 1965 and of he Archdiocesan Council since 1968 and a life member since 1986. In 1969 he received the highest lay honor of the church when His Eminence Archbishop Iakovos conferred upon him the title of Archon Aktouarios of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and a member of the Order of St. Andrew the Apostle. In 1981, the title was elevated to the highest level. In 1981 Dr. Croffead was appointed the National Chairman of the Saint Photios National Shrine in St. Augustine, Florida. The shrine commemorates the 1768 arrival in America of the first Greek immigrants and is considered the Greek "Plymouth Rock". Dr. Croffead and his wife, Georgia, were so instrumental in the successful creation of the shrine that in 1985 they were designated as Godparents of the Shrine. Dr. Croffead has received numerous honors during his career. His various memberships in National Professional Societies consist of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology- Fellow; American Association for the Advancement of Science-Fellow; American College of Surgeons-Fellow; Society of Eye Surgeons- Charter Member; and Pan American Association of Ophthalmology. Dr. Croffead was also a member of the following local societies: Charleston County Medical Association; Charleston Ophthalmology Society - Charter Member and First President; Medical Society of South Carolina; South Carolina Society of Ophthalmology; South Carolina Medical Association; South Carolina Pharmaceutical Association; and Society of 1824 - Fellow. Dr. Croffead was a life member of the Elks; a member of Sertoma, Civitans, AHEPA, The Country Club of Charleston and a life member of the Association of Citadel Men. Beyond all of Dr. Croffead's numerous achievements, he most importantly was a man who loved life and family. Some of his many interests and hobbies include his love of opera, languages, gardening, computers, classic movies, fishing and guitar. As an avid athlete, he competed in boxing in his high school and early Citadel days and later cherished his time playing tennis and golf with his family and friends. For thirty years he met weekly with the "Greek Six" to play cards and share life. Georgia was George's beloved and they lived a fairy tale life of love and devotion. Making family a top priority, each Monday night the family would gather to feast upon Greek recipes handed down by past generations. During these dinners, there was always laughter and we loved it most when they would tell stories of the past, such as the first time they met. "I saw her across the room and just knew she was my one," he said. They were engaged within the week and married soon after. Georgia saved the same anniversary card, each year adding the date to their 65 years of life together. She was by him until his end. To love and be loved is the greatest gift. He was a true gift who will continue to live in all who admired and adored him! Dr. Croffead is survived by his wife of 65 years, Georgia P. Croffead of Charleston; one son, Dr. Thomas G. Croffead, and his wife Pattie of James Island, SC; one daughter, Sandra E. Veronee, and her husband Michael of Johns Island, SC; three grandchildren: Christy C. Schachte and her husband David, Dr. James D. Elliott, III and his wife Catherine; Dr. Laurie A. Elliott and her husband Marshall Milligan; and six great-grandchildren. In Lieu of flowers, please send memorials to the Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity, 30 Race Street, Charleston, SC 29403 Arrangements by J. HENRY STUHR, INC. DOWNTOWN CHAPEL. Visit our guestbook at www.postandcourier.com/deaths

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Published by Charleston Post & Courier on Jan. 8, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for George Croffead

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Carol and Bob Linville Pet Helpers, 1447 Folly Rd.

February 6, 2010

On behalf of all at Pet Helpers and Bob and I, please accept our deepest sympathy in your loss of a wonderful husband, father and doctor. Dr. George was the first eye doctor I met after moving to Chas in 1974; at 28 yrs of age, he convinced me to have some 'scar removal' surgery done on my eyes. Tho scared, I immediately trusted him and his gentle way. We did the surgery and I was so glad. I remember asking him 'why the anesthiaolist was so expensive - he replied " hey, hes the guy who keeps you alive!" - I will never forget that! Our next great moment was when I began saving animals and Pet Helpers was born - had two kittens with horrible eyes - In desperation when they were not getting better, I called 'Dr George"- he said "come down to the office and I will see what I can do - keep it quiet"! - I did, we ultimately saved those kittens eyes! I will so miss not having him here even tho we havent seen him in years. He touched so many lives and will be terribly missed by so many. May God bless you and help you during this most painful time. Sincerely

Spero Drake

January 15, 2010

My deepest sympathies & condolences to the Family of Dr. George Croffead, his wife, Georgia, his children, Sandra & Tom and his many grandchildren for their loss. George was a very "special"
person and will be sincerely missed, not only by the family, but also by all of his many friends within the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church and the Charleston Community. George was my Eye Doctor for many years and I always valued his advice, wisdom & experience, as well as his friendship. He was a true Christian and I know he is with our Lord & Saviour, Jesus Christ. My thoughts & prayers are with you all. GOD Bless you all....Spero Drake.

Renee Mizell Walley

January 13, 2010

I just found out about this great miracle worker's passing. I owe my eyesight to this man and his son. I was seen by him from the the time my eyes opened till my late teens. I know there is a wonderful angel in heaven looking down on us. Please know my prayers are with the family.

John K. Chrysostom

January 11, 2010

Dr. Croffead was a cherished friend of our family as well as our ophthalmologist for many years. He will be greatly missed by us all. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this difficult time.

Teddie Perry Panos

January 10, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers are with you

Kay & David AvRutick

January 9, 2010

We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts are with all the wonderful family members of Dr. Croffead.

Robin Kornahrens Cook

January 9, 2010

Dr. Croffead was my doctor from the time I was 2 years old until he retired. He used to call me "The girl with the dancing eyes" because of my astigmatism. He used to tell me that I reminded him of his niece Margo. He will always have a special place in my heart.

Francine Engel Robin

January 9, 2010

Mrs. Croffead, Sandra, and the Croffead family,

I have many fond memories of spending time in your home as we were growing up and with Dr. Croffead as my eye doctor. My love, thoughts, and prayers are wirh all or you at this very difficult time.

Candis Grace-Lee, M.D.

January 9, 2010

I remember Dr. Croffead as one of the first physicians I encountered who did not have racially separated waiting rooms. He and his staff provided excellent care. As an African-American that was extremely uplifting. The years of care that he provided to my family was greatly appreciated. He was a man ahead of his time.

Sandra & Ben Morris

January 8, 2010

Dear Dr. Tom, Sandra, and family, Our heart felt thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time. Dr. Goerge was my first and only opthamologist until his retirement when Dr. Tom proudly filled his shoes. My whole family were patients of Dr. George and then later Dr. Tom.
Dr. George was a very unique, speacil person. He was very kind, caring, and compassionate and gave his time freely. He never made one feel rushed and was forever patient. These qualities are certainly hard to find in many doctors today. Dr. George obviously passed these traits to his family because they run rampant in the Croffead family. They are the finest people my family has had the privilege of knowing. They are like family and make you feel like family. Dr. Tom takes excellent care of us.
It was a privilege to have had Dr. George for our doctor and to have known him as a fine friend, something we'll always treasure. He was a true gentleman and a scholar. He will be missed greatly.
May all of your wonderful memories and the love of family and friends bring you great confort at this time.
Go well Dr. George, "Our old friend".
We Love You - God Bless,
Sandra, Ben, and Benji Morris
and the Mitchum Family

Brenda Sippel

January 8, 2010

Please accept my deapest sympathy and sorrow in the passing of Dr.George. He was such a wonderful person. I enjoyed working for him and Dr.Tommy very much. My prayers are with the family during this difficult time.

January 8, 2010

Dear Laurie, Tommy, and the Croffead family,
George was a fine man and model physician -- always straight-forward and always the gentleman. It was my privilege to have known him. Rick Saunders

Ms. M. A. Cook

January 8, 2010

To the Family of the late Dr. Croffead,
c/o Dr. Laurie, Dr. Tom, and Family,

Please accept my deepest sympathy in the passing of Dr. Croffead who was my first opthamologist to have my parents, the late Mr. & Mrs. Frederick James "Jimmie" Cook, and me, Ms. M. Anne Cook, at the age of five to begin kindergarten, start wearing glasses my last year of elementary school.
I then proceeded to become a patient of "Dr. Tom's" when I elected to wear contact lenses.
Now, I am a patient of "Dr. Laurie's," and in past years have been seen by her brother, Jamie. They really know how to keep it in the family. :-)
On a more somber note, Dr. George will be sorely missed, and I will continue to pray for the family. "Let praises go up so blessings may come down." He eternally resting in the arms of our Heavenly Father. God Bless all of you.

Prayerfully,

January 8, 2010

Please accept our deepest sympathies in the passing of one of Charleston's finest gentlemen..

From the family of
Al & Marie Esposito

Judy Hoxie

January 8, 2010

Dear Croffead family and especially Dr. Tommy and Laurie,

I was saddened to learn of your great loss. Dr. Croffead was a grand gentleman of Ophththalmology and it was a pleasure to know him and to work with him.

sincerely.

Judy Hoxie
Cornelius, NC

Ben Sheftall

January 8, 2010

Please accept my heartfelt sympathies on the passing of Dr. Croffead. I had the distinct honor and pleasure of knowing this man through a mutual friend Ed Finnerty. Dr. was always very personable with me through the years as we chatted for short periods when we were in contact with one another. I have also been fortunate to meet other members of his family as his wonderful son Tommy who I enjoy a present day sporting relationship with. I know George will be sadly missed by all who were lucky enough to have come in contact with him. God rest his soul.

Sincerely,
Benjamin F. Sheftall DMD

Joyce Frierson-Wright

January 8, 2010

To the entire Croffead family, I am so saddened by your loss. My prayers are with all of you. So many years ago when I went to school with Tommy, I remember the great times he had with his family. All of you are Blessed with such wonderful memories. Please know that our thoughts are with you during this time and always.

Skip Limbaker

January 8, 2010

To the Croffead Family, I didn't have the pleasure of knowing Dr. George personally but have been a patient of Dr. Tommy since childhood and then of course had the pleasure of being Dr. Elliot's patient as well. You have a wonderful family and I'm truly sorry for your loss. The Charleston area was very blessed to have such a smart and caring Dr. .

January 8, 2010

Dear Sandra, Laurie and the Croffead Family,

Claudia and I send our heartfelt sympathy on the passing of Dr.Croffead. I am sure he will be missed almost as much by the entire Charleston
Alan & Claudia Martin

January 8, 2010

My heart feld sadness goes out to you and your family at this time of sorrow.

Betty King

Mike & Hermeine

January 8, 2010

Our deepist sympathies are with you and your family at this time of great loss. May God's mercy and love provide you strength and peace in the days ahead.
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

Bobby Linker

January 8, 2010

To the Croffead family, I am sorry to hear of Dr. Croffead's passing. Myself and my family are thinking of all of you.

Melondie Thornhill

January 8, 2010

Dr. Tom, Sandy, and family, I am so sorry for your loss. I was a patient of Dr. George when I was only 6 months old. My family doctor sent my parents to him because he was the best around. Over the years he was my doctor until I was about 12, then I wanted to wear contacts so that's when I started seeing Dr. Tom. I always ask how he is when I go to the office, he was always such a sweet man. I know your family will miss him greatly.

Joyce E. Brogdon

January 8, 2010

Dear Mrs Croffead, Dr. Thomas, and entire family,
I was just ten years old when the school nurse sent home a note saying that I might need glasses. My father searched the area to find the very best doctor, who, of course, was Dr. George Croffead. He opened up a beautiful world for me, when I discovered what everyone else was seeing. I did have a frightful moment in the exam chair (funny now). Dr. Croffead took a phone call during my exam, and discussed a patient who was going blind. He told the caller that he was not sure he would be able to save her sight. I was afraid he was talking about me!
In recent years, I became Dr. Thomas Croffead's patient, and related that memory to him. Dr. Thomas' office sent me a note of condolence when I lost my late husband (Jack Eckhardt) four years ago. What a thoughtful gesture that was.
I enjoyed reading Dr. Croffead's obituary. What a wonderfully amazing life he had! (I discovered that he was just ten days younger than my father was.)
I know that it must seem nearly impossible to go on without your dear husband and father. I am praying that you will be comforted by the presence of God in your lives, as you cherish the special memories that you each carry in your hearts.
Sincerely,
Joyce Eckhardt Brogdon

Larry/Sally Williams

January 8, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

January 8, 2010

To the Croffead fammily,I am a stranger to this family,Dr.Croffead was my first eye doctor,I was five years old. My parents heard he was the best and he was. He operated on my eye to remove a tumor , it was a succes .I still remember his dark,dark wavey hair,dark browm eyes and a smile that made a little girl to feel unafraid.I new his niece Maria,I loved her as a neighbor and a true friend in Pinecrest.When I attended her funeral,across the way I there stood this man,to me he looked the same,just a little older,still hansome and that warm,kind smile was still on his face.I hope you havent minded me telling this old story.I have met many people in my life but Dr.Croffead always was in my heart as a fine gentleman,kind soul and a one of a kind Doctor. I know he will be missed by his family that loved him very deeply and people like myself with a story. God Bless,Sincerely,Ginger Smith Melendez

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