Obituary of George Campbell

Campbell, George L., 82, of St. Petersburg, Florida, died peacefully April 12, 2023.  He was born outside of Phoenix, Arizona in 1940.  He moved to St. Petersburg in 1969 from Los Angeles, California, to start his more than 30 year illustrious career with Florida Power Corp.  He began in finance, and was promoted to investor relations to develop the emerging new holding company, Florida Progress Corp.  He later became VP of Public Affairs and Chief Governmental Affairs Officer, where he was responsible for developing and implementing all corporate political and governmental strategy for the company and all the subsidiaries.  George’s humility, positive outlook on life and joyful spirit contributed to the success in all he accomplished.   

Not only was George actively involved with shareholders, financial analysts, legislative and regulatory governing bodies for the utility industry, he also found time to devote to the needs of our community.   He served on the Board of Leadership Florida, Florida Tax Watch, Public Affairs Council, VP and Treasurer of United Way of Pinellas County, Past President of St. Petersburg Jaycees, and Past President of the St. Petersburg Museum of History.  He was a proud member of Leadership Florida Class VII, Leadership St. Pete, and involved in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and Florida Chamber of Commerce, as well as Global Public Affairs Institute, Edison Electric Institute, National Association of Manufacturers, The Energy Council and Southern States Energy Board.  His dedication and commitment to serve began as an Eagle Scout and continued as a member of the U.S. Air Force.   

George enjoyed many adventures traveling around the world and learning about other cultures and religions, but home was St. Petersburg, where he loved the abundance of fine and performing arts, especially The Florida Orchestra.  In retirement his time and service was dedicated to his Church, First United Methodist of St. Petersburg.  Known as a joyful, kind and giving person, he will be deeply missed by his family, many friends and our community. 

He was preceded in death by his parents: Howard and Ynez Campbell; his son, George Campbell, Jr.; his first wife, Jane Leiby Campbell; and is survived by his wife of 35 years, Pamela Campbell; his sister, Jeanne Hokerk (Wayne); his sister-in-law, Kimberly Black (Robert); niece Kari Link (Joe); and other nieces and nephews; as well as great nephews Jonathan, Justin and great niece, Shelby. 

A memorial service will be held on Monday, April 24, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at First United Methodist Church of St. Petersburg. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to First United Methodist Church of St. Petersburg, https://www.stpetefirst.org/give 212 – 3rd Street North, St. Petersburg, FL  33701 or The Florida Orchestra, https://the.floridaorchestra.org/donate/contribute1 244 - 2nd Avenue North, Suite 420, St. Petersburg, FL  33701.