George Jerry Fitz, Jr.

Remembering George J. Fitz, Jr.: Gospel Host, Veteran, and Community Icon

George J. Fitz, Jr., 83, beloved community member, pioneer of Black radio, and legendary gospel radio host in Portland, Oregon, passed away peacefully on July 13, 2025, at the Oregon Veterans Home in The Dalles, Oregon.

George was born on May 14, 1942, to George J. Fitz, Sr. of Texas and Anna Fitz (Daniels) of Portland. He was raised in Portland, first on SE 60th and Duke, and later at NE Graham Street, where the family permanently settled. He accepted Christ at an early age, attending House of Prayer for All Nations and later becoming a devoted member of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church under Robert C. Jointer.

He was the eldest of four siblings and attended Elliott Elementary and Immaculate Heart Catholic School during his early education. He later attended Benson Polytechnic High School where he outperformed in track & field. He graduated from Jefferson High School in 1960. 

George proudly served in the U.S. Army, where he was stationed in Germany. As life would have it, three bachelors would move in together: Dick Bobo, George Paige, and George Fitz. In 1968, he married Shirley Boyce and had three children. In 1989, he met Reberita McGee, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Warren G. McGee of Portland. After six months, they married on March 3, 1990, at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church—officiated by his uncle, Bishop Harry Daniels. This union lasted 35+ years until his departure.

George began his working career as a butcher at Swift Meat Packing. After a hand injury ended that path, he returned to school to earn his associate degree. He went on to work in sales for companies such as Reynolds Tobacco, GranTree, and Pacific Office Automation, eventually building a long and distinguished career with U.S. Customs, where his work took him across the U.S. and overseas.

George found his voice in broadcasting, starting as a disc jockey at Portland’s first Black radio station, KSOL. He later hosted a show on KBTS (KOLD – Bold, Together, Soul) as “The Mellow Man,” and eventually launched The George Fitz Gospel Show—Portland’s first and only gospel music program—on KBOO and later KBMS. In addition to his professional career, George was deeply rooted in Portland’s cultural scene. He founded a community choir in the mid 70’s that traveled through the Pacific Northwest and Vancouver, BC.  He moonlighted as a DJ at local Black social clubs, including Geneva’s Lounge, owned by Paul Knauls and the Gospel Skate at the Imperial Roller-skating Rink in SE Portland. He became closely associated with the modeling agency of Glorea LaVonne and for several years MC'd  for  Veronica Banks Cantu's fashion shows.

No one could curate a Sunday gospel playlist quite like George. His deep, honey-smooth voice became his trademark. One of his most cherished segments was the Prayer Network, where he read listener prayer requests live on-air. He also promoted numerous gospel artists, including The Winans, Yolanda Adams and Vanessa Bell Armstrong, and mentored local musicians to sharpen their craft. After more than 30 years on-air, George retired from radio to focus on his growing responsibilities at U.S. Customs.

In 2010, George was medically retired from U.S. Customs due to health concerns. Still, he remained as active as possible, regularly connecting with family, friends, and new acquaintances. Known as “The Mayor of Fairview,” he was a friendly, familiar face in his neighborhood. Most days, you could find him outside on the electrical box, chatting with neighbors and passersby, Lucky Strike in hand. He was a gifted storyteller, always ready with captivating accounts of his life in radio, his travels, his work in customs, and his rich family history.

As his health declined, George eventually required more intensive care and moved to a care facility. In July 2024, he was placed at the Oregon Veterans Home in The Dalles. Though initially hesitant—particularly about VA care—George quickly found community, camaraderie, and a renewed sense of peace. The move proved transformative, not only improving his well-being but giving his family an extra precious year with him. Surrounded by his wife, children, siblings, friends, and fellow veterans, George was never alone. His room was always filled with his favorite comforts: Pepsi, chips, cookies, and whatever treats he requested.

On July 8, 2025, George suffered a major medical event from which he could not recover. By July 11, his family was informed that his time was limited. With compassion and grace, the hospice staff guided the family through the difficult days ahead. George held on long enough for loved ones—family, friends, staff, and residents—to gather, laugh, cry, share stories, and say goodbye. His wife, Reberita, and eldest daughter, Chantell Fitz-Amado, were with him every step of the way, ensuring his wishes were honored. With his loved ones surrounding him and the hospice team providing gentle, pain-free care, George passed quietly in the early morning hours of Sunday, July 13—ever the distinguished gentleman.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the Oregon Veterans Home’s staff and residents. Your kindness, respect, and loving care for George can never be repaid. 

George will be laid to rest with full military honors at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Oregon, in a private ceremony for immediate family.

He was reunited in eternity with his parents, George Sr. and Anna Fitz; his in-laws, Mr. and Mrs. Warren G. McGee; and his son-in-law, Andrew Amado, Sr..

His legacy lives on through his beloved wife, Reberita McGee-Fitz; his children, Chantell Fitz-Amado, Jamahl Fitz, and Carmell Fitz; his siblings Larry Fitz, Cheryl Calvert (Donald), Charles Fitz, Sr.; his grandchildren: Andrew Amado, Jr. (LaToya), Giovanni Amado (Lantoria), Shawn Hughes (Anna), Hannah Starchvick (Rob), Renika Weliever, and Janiah Fitz; his great-grandchildren: Mustapha Amado, Kamiyah Amado, Tatyana Amado, Christian Amado, Noah Amado, Ace Amado, Hayden Hughes, and Jolene Hughes; and his great-great-grandchildren: Hakeem Amado and Amir̈e Amado.

The outpouring of love, condolences, and cherished stories from friends, former coworkers, and community members has brought great comfort to his family. George’s kindness, generosity, integrity, and commitment to community were unmatched. He could be playful and mischievous—always quick with a joke or a smile. His unwavering faith in God and deep devotion to family guided everything he did. His vast knowledge and storytelling spirit leave a void that cannot be filled. His voice—a Portland treasure—will not soon be heard again.

With a final sign-off in his own words: “This is George Fitz signing off, and remember—peace, love, and attend the church of your choice.” Until we cross over the Jordan river. From your loving wife and family. We love you, Daddy.

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