Let’s talk about a man who left an indelible mark on the life of Joe Scarborough, the host of Morning Joe. George Scarborough, Joe’s dad, was more than just a father; he was the ultimate supporter, the one who shaped Joe into the man he is today. George passed away in 2011, but his legacy lives on through the stories Joe shares about him. Fans are curious to know more about this remarkable man—his life, his career, and his family. Let’s dive in and uncover the fascinating details of George Scarborough’s life.
George Scarborough's Early Years: A Journey of Roots and Relocations
George Scarborough was born on March 30, 1934, in Lexington, Kentucky. His early years were filled with moves across the country, as his family relocated several times. They moved from Miami, Florida, to San Diego, California, before finally settling in Milton, Florida, in 1946. George graduated from Milton High School and returned to his home state to attend the University of Kentucky, where he earned a degree in Business in 1956. These early years were crucial in shaping the man George would become, setting the stage for the many adventures and challenges that lay ahead.
Love at College: George and Mary Jo’s Eternal Bond
George met the love of his life, Mary Joanna Clark, while they were both students at the University of Kentucky. Their love story began on campus, and they tied the knot on August 14, 1955, at the Second Avenue Baptist Church in Rome, Georgia. The wedding took place just a year before George graduated with his degree in Business. It was the beginning of a beautiful journey that would see them through thick and thin, raising a family and building a life together.
Read also:Dave And Jenny Marrs Settle Lawsuit Over Home Renovations
Building a Family: The Scarborough Clan
George and Mary Jo’s family grew with the birth of their first child, Carolyn Elizabeth Scarborough, in 1957. George was stationed at Fort Benning, Georgia, at the time, serving a brief stint in the Army. Their son, George Clark Scarborough, was born in 1960 in Rome, Georgia, and Joe followed in 1963 in Atlanta, Georgia. As the youngest of three, Joe was lucky to have a strong family unit that would influence his life in profound ways. The Scarborough family was a close-knit group, and George’s role as a father was nothing short of extraordinary.
A Career Built on Resilience: George Scarborough’s Professional Journey
George had a varied career, working in several fields throughout his life. One of his most notable roles was as a manufacturing engineer for Lockheed, where he contributed to major projects like the C-5A, the C-130, and the L-1011. However, life took an unexpected turn in 1971 when George was laid off. This was a tough period for the family, and Joe vividly remembers the struggles they faced during this time. In a heartfelt eulogy written for Politico in 2011, Joe recalled driving around the South with his dad as he searched for a new job. The financial strain was palpable, with the family relying on a meager $40 unemployment check each week to make ends meet.
Despite the hardships, George’s determination never wavered. He kept a diary during this period, meticulously documenting every job lead, interview, rejection, and glimmer of hope. His final entry in the diary reads, “With the Lord’s help, I will do well.” And he did. Over the next four decades, George worked tirelessly, raising his children, sending them to college, and supporting them every step of the way. His resilience and faith were the cornerstones of his success.
In 1978, the Scarboroughs moved to Pensacola, Florida, where Mary Jo worked as the director of the Miss National Teenage Pageant. Together, they co-founded the Miss American Coed Pageant in 1983, with George serving as the national director. Joe fondly remembers his father’s worldly success, noting that George achieved far more than he ever imagined after being laid off in 1971. It’s a testament to George’s perseverance and unwavering spirit.
