'Beloved' Former Principal Of Ridgewood School Dies At 78

RIDGEWOOD, NJ — A beloved former principal of George Washington Middle School in Ridgewood for 18 years recently passed away, the school district's Board of Education said at Monday's meeting.

George Neville, who spent most of his career in education as principal of the Ridgewood school, from 1987 to 2005, died at the age of 78, his obituary published by the funeral home said.

"(Neville) had a full career and life, and we, at Ridgewood Public Schools, were fortunate to have benefited from his knowledge and commitment during his tenure," school board President Hyunju Kwak said in his honor.

Born in Hartford, Connecticut, Neville settled in Ridgewood, and he had a "unique ability," his obituary said, to create an exceptional learning environment.

"There will always be a special place in (Neville's) heart for his G.W. family," the obituary said.

Neville enjoyed history, especially the American Civil War; he also loved sports and was a three-sport athlete in college. He is predeceased by his parents and is survived by his wife of 49 years, Frances Jani, three children and four grandchildren, all of whom he "loved dearly," the obituary said.

An ice cream social memorial will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. on Sept. 23 at George Washington Middle School in Ridgewood, the obituary said.