George Armstrong Cavender

The Legend of George Armstrong Cavender

In the realm of knowledge, where the alchemy of food, nutrition, and the ancient art of packaging sciences intertwined, there lived a wise and noble scholar known as George Armstrong Cavender. Born under the celestial alignment of August 16, 1977, George embarked on a grand adventure that would leave an indelible mark upon all who crossed his path.

As an esteemed Associate Professor at the revered Clemson University, George wielded the power of knowledge to enlighten countless young minds. His classroom was a sanctuary of learning, where aspiring heroes gathered to unlock the mysteries of sustenance and forge their destinies. Through his teachings, he spun threads of wisdom that connected all who sought the light of understanding.

George’s heart was vast, filled with love that knew no bounds, and his greatest companion was the radiant Kelli Marie Cavender. Together, they traversed the realms, embarking on quests that took them from the rolling hills of Georgia to the awe-inspiring peaks of Oregon, through the heartlands of Nebraska, and finally to the enchanted shores of South Carolina. Alongside them were their majestic kitties, Shadow and Cinder, who lent their feline magic to the journey.

Their bond was a tapestry woven with laughter and shared dreams, each thread brightly colored by their adventures. George was not merely a teacher; he was a guardian of joy, a “dire-hobbit” whose boundless hospitality was renowned across the lands. His hearth welcomed all who sought warmth and companionship.

In his travels, George explored distant realms—from the sun-drenched savannahs of Africa to the bustling markets of Vietnam—sharing laughter and wisdom wherever he journeyed. Alongside him were kindred spirits, including the esteemed Don and Meredith Howard, their brave sons, Tripp and Connor, the adventurous duo, Ashley and Chris Cotton and the steadfast trio Kimberly, Hannah and Kinsley. Together, they created bonds that transcended time and space, embracing the joyful chaos brought by nieces and nephews, Valerie, Charlie Jr, Tinley and Bubbie, who gathered around fires to hear the tales of their beloved uncle.

Alas, tragedy struck when George’s mortal form was called back to the cosmos by a fearsome cancerous owlbear, a creature born of despair and darkness. On December 2, 2025, he succumbed to this formidable foe, leaving a void that echoes through the hearts of all who loved him, but most of all, in the heart of his devoted wife, Kelli, whose spirit he cherished above all.

As we gather in reverence to honor the memory of George, we shall hold a memorial service—an epic celebration of his extraordinary life. In lieu of flowers, we invite brave souls to contribute to the quest of supporting the medical and funeral expenses, in keeping with his belief that “flowers die and do not show my eternal love.”

Let his legend live on in the tales we tell, for George Armstrong Cavender was not just a man but a hero whose spirit shall forever guide us in our own grand adventures.

He is survived by: His devoted wife, Kelli Marie Cavender; his loving mother, Robbie Cavender; his sister, Jennifer (Charlie) Pucko; niece Valerie and nephew Charlie; his caring in-laws, Marilyn and Louis Durand; his sister-in-law, Kimberly (Jarred) Bailey; and their niece Tinley and nephew Cohen, affectionately known as "Bubbie." He is also remembered fondly by his chosen family, including Don and Meredith Howard and their sons, Tripp and Connor, Ashley and Chris Cotton, and Dave and Ginny Maples.

This does not even begin to tell the tale of the many that held a place in his heart.

I want to honor his Adventuring team; Ashley, Chris, Lee, Jack, Troy, and myself for all those late nights gaming.

Celebration of Life:

St Paul Methodist Church

14 Martin’s Ford Rd

Dahlonega, GA 30533

Sunday December 14, 2025 at 2pm

In lieu of flowers:

http://spot.fund/TheLegendOfDrGeorgeCavender