George Samuel Motley, Jr.

George Samuel Motley Jr., of Dayton, Ohio, passed away in Dayton on November 6, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on January 2, 1948, in Dayton, a city that remained the setting for both his beginning and his farewell.

George lived a life marked by dedication, intellect, and deep devotion to those he loved. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Iowa, where he also played football, bringing to his studies and athletics the same discipline that would shape the years ahead. His gifts as an athlete were evident early on. Recruited by Midwestern College football team—was a private liberal arts affiliate of the Northwest Missouri State University, Maryville, Missouri graduated in 1976. Following in the legendary of his Pro Football Hall of Fame fullback, linebacker, and trailblazer Marion Motley. Who was a trailblazer who famously integrated modern professional football with the Cleveland Browns 1950s.

He also and held many records in track and field at Roosevelt High School, accomplishments that reflected both talent and determination.

In his professional life, George served as an investigator for the Ohio Civil Rights Association. His work stood as an expression of purpose and principle, and it reflected a commitment to fairness and justice.

Outside of work, George found joy in the things that kept his mind engaged and his spirit grounded. He was a faithful member and served as an usher at Mount Carmel Missionary Baptist Church. He loved watching football and playing chess, enjoyed the History Channel, and was an avid reader. Whether following a game, considering a careful move across a chessboard, or turning the pages of a good book, he embraced the pleasures of thought, strategy, and learning.

Above all, George was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather. He shared 49 years of marriage with his wife, Bergena Motley, a lasting union that speaks to enduring love, partnership, and family. He will be remembered with love by Bergena; by his daughters, Rohana Motley and Courtney Motley; by his granddaughter, Asha Motley-White; and by his siblings, Denise Motley, Diane Motley-Hale, and Gordon Motley; and sisters-in-law, Jennifer Boykin, Carolyn Snow, Robyn Staton, and Tracy Staton; and goddaughter, Heather Nooks. Each of them carries forward the memory of his strength, his care, and the steady presence he brought to their lives.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Elnora Motley and father George S. Motley, Sr.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church, 5370 Dayton-Liberty Rd, Dayton, OH 45417. The funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the church. Burial will take place the same day at West Memory Gardens, 6722 Hemple Road, Moraine, OH 45439.

George Samuel Motley will be remembered for a life of purpose, for the love he gave his family, and for the quiet but lasting impression he made on all who knew him.