George P. Croll

George P. Croll, age 82, of South Lyon, formerly of Northville and Plymouth, passed away December 31, 2024. He was born on February 12, 1942 in Newcastle, Pennsylvania; son of Paul and Florence (McFadden) Croll. George met his first wife Marjorie at Interlochen Music Camp where he worked during the summer in high school and college, they were devoted to one another for many years until her death in 1987.  He found love again with Joy Hillebrand; they were married on June 28, 1997 and spent 27 blessed years together as husband and wife.

George was a graduate of Wyandotte Roosevelt High School in Wyandotte, Michigan, Class of 1960. During his high school years, he served as a drum major in the marching band, an accomplishment highlighted by performing in the Hudson’s Thanksgiving Day Parade for three years. After high school, George pursued higher education, earning his bachelor’s degree from Albion College in 1964 where he was a member of Alpha Tau Omega fraternity.  He later completed his master’s degree at Wayne State University.

George dedicated 30 years to shaping young minds as a beloved teacher and coach at Livonia Stevenson High School. A valued member of the English Department, he inspired students through courses in public speaking, theater, drama, forensics, and debate. As the boys and girls Varsity Tennis coach, he instilled teamwork and perseverance, and as the debate coach, he led his team to win Livonia Stevenson’s first-ever trophy. George was honored by the Michigan High School Tennis Coaches Association as the Regional Coach of the Year.  He also served as President of the Michigan Association of Speech Communication.  After retiring from high school teaching, George continued his passion for education as an adjunct professor at Wayne State University, where he concluded his remarkable teaching career.

When his children were younger, George was a devoted member of First Presbyterian Church of Plymouth where he sang in the choir with his first wife Marj.  He also served faithfully on Session, contributing his time and talents to the church community he cherished.  A true gentleman, George was known for his honesty, strong values, and generous spirit. He devoted his time to volunteering with organizations such as Gleaners, Michigan Humane Society, Habitat for Humanity, Crossroads, and the Huron Valley Humane Society.

A lifelong sportsman, George had a deep love for tennis, playing well into his 70s. He cherished the outdoors, enjoying family camping trips, relaxing fishing outings, and rounds of golf. A skilled poker player, he participated in both competitive tournaments and social play whenever he had the chance.  George’s infectious sense of humor, sociable nature, and love for life will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

George is survived by his loving wife, Joy Hillebrand; his children, Jennifer Bell and Paul (Anna Kronenberger) Croll; his grandchildren, Matthew Bell, Katherine Bell, Emma Bell, Ethan Croll, Lyla Croll, and Miranda Croll; his sister, Alice Sieloff; and his brothers-in-law, Rick Simonds and Bruce Alexander.  He was preceded in death by his first wife, Marjorie Croll; his parents; his sister, Grace MacFarland; and his infant sister, Nancy Croll.

Visitation will be held Friday, January 3, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. with a Funeral Service at 1:00 p.m.  Additional visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville.  Mr. Croll will be laid to rest next to his first wife at Riverside Cemetery in Plymouth.

The family would appreciate memorial contributions to Heart to Heart Hospice Foundation , 7240 Chase Oaks Blvd., Plano, TX 75025; Habitat for Humanity International , 322 West Lamar Street, Americus, Ga 31709; or Michigan Parkinson Foundation , 30400 Telegraph Road, Ste. 150, Bingham Farms, MI 48025.