George Phydias Mitchell

1919 - 2013

Statement from the Mitchell Family

Galveston, Texas (July 26, 2013)—We are deeply saddened to announce that George Phydias Mitchell passed away today. He died of natural causes in Galveston surrounded by his family.

His story was quintessentially American.

George P. Mitchell was raised as a child of meager means who, throughout his life, believed in giving back to the community that made his success possible and lending a hand to the less fortunate struggling to reach their potential.  

He married Cynthia Woods Mitchell, and, together, they raised 10 children, and collaborated on myriad projects—all dedicated to making the world a more hospitable and sustainable place. Cynthia passed away in 2009.

He will be fondly remembered for flying in the face of convention—focusing on ‘what could be,’ with boundless determination—many times fighting through waves of skepticism and opposition to achieve his vision.

Whether it was graduating first in his class at Texas A&M University, developing The Woodlands, a master-planned new town, pioneering the technology that unleashed the shale gas boom, working to create a more sustainable planet, restoring the historic area of Galveston, or just fishing with his family, he had the right mix of vision, optimism, and tenacity, and a love for his fellow man.

We are and will forever be grateful for the gift of this remarkable life. There’s no doubt that he helped make this world a better place.

For additional information, please visit the Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation website at www.cgmf.org.