GILMANTON IRON WORKS --- George Thomas Greathead Jr. of Gilmanton Iron Works, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, formerly of Massachusetts, passed away on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Concord Hospital – Laconia.
George was born on January 26, 1941, in Boston, MA, the son of the late George Thomas Greathead Sr., and Anna (Scannell) Greathead.
He lived a life defined by service, craftsmanship, and devotion to family. He proudly served as a police officer with the Wellesley Police Department for five years, earning the respect of colleagues and residents alike through his dedication, integrity, and commitment to helping others. He also worked for several private
schools as a Director of Building and Grounds, such as Rivers Country Day School, Fessenden School, Milton Academy, and Fay School.
George was the ultimate “Mr. Fix-It.” There was rarely a problem he couldn’t solve or a project he couldn’t tackle. Whether repairing something around the house, helping a neighbor, or building something from scratch, he found joy in working with his hands and sharing his talents with others. He built furniture, baby cradles, and much more for family and friends. George spent countless hours in his workshop creating beautiful pieces that reflected both his skill and patience. His craftsmanship became a lasting legacy, treasured by family and friends.
One of his greatest joys was spending time with his grandchildren. He loved teaching them to fish, kayak and enjoy hikes on Mount Major. He also shared a love of building mechanical boats. He designed, crafted, and launched his creations with them, making memories that will be cherished for generations. Those
moments reflected George’s gift for teaching, encouraging curiosity, and inspiring a love of creativity. As a member of the Back Bay Skippers, he built and raced his RC sailing boats and enjoyed every moment of it.
George was also an active member of the Order of the Arrow in the Scouts in his youth, embracing its principles of leadership, service, and brotherhood throughout his life. He carried those values into everything he did and touched many lives through his involvement and mentorship. His stories about pranks and projects from this time are some of his favorites to share.
Above all, George will be remembered for his generous spirit, practical wisdom, and unwavering love for his family. He leaves behind a legacy of service, craftsmanship, and kindness that will continue to inspire all who knew him.
George is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Marcia (Garry) Greathead; son Shaun T. Greathead and his wife Shannon; daughters Pamela Shaw and her husband Robert, and Kristen Hod and her significant other Dalton Lucier; sister Laurie Foote and her husband Carl; grandchildren Deana Clewes, TJ Clewes, Samara Hod, Emma Shaw and Keegan Shaw; great-grandchildren Jacob Clewes, and Parker McDonald; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, George is predeceased by his sisters Christine Chasse and her husband George; and Janet Fitzpatrick and her husband Leo.
Visitation will be on Thursday June 25, 2026 from 9:30AM to 10:30AM at the Henry J. Burke & Sons Funeral Home, 56 Washington St, Wellesley, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St Paul Church, 502 Washington St., Wellesley at 11:00 o’clock.
Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services/603Cremations.com, 164 Pleasant St., Laconia, NH, 03246, is assisting the family with arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial, please visit wilkinsonbeane.com.