Governor Rick Perry
"George Mitchell was a remarkable Texan whose pioneer spirit has truly changed the world – particularly when you consider how many people will live better lives across the globe because of his innovation. From revitalizing his hometown of Galveston, to creating the thriving community of The Woodlands, George has left a lasting footprint on our state, our citizens and our future. Anita joins me in offering our deepest condolences to his family and friends."
Dancie Perugini Ware, Longtime publicist for Mitchell
"George Mitchell was the quintessential Renaissance man, performing brilliantly and innovatively in so many different fields. He was a man who never experienced the confines of time, for he never really lived in this moment. He always belonged to the future, and his beloved Cynthia was a guiding star in that universe.
On a deeply personal level, George and Cynthia were my dearest friends and mentors, who brought me into their extraordinary lives and endeavors over many decades – and for those remarkable relationships, I am forever grateful."
Admiral Smith, CEO Texas A&M University at Galveston
"It is hard to express in words what George Mitchell meant to Texas A&M University at Galveston, its students, faculty and staff, and to me personally. To say he was a great man with foresight and generosity isn't enough. His contributions to this university literally made this institution possible. The very land it sits on was donated by Mr. Mitchell in honor of his mother and his support never waned. But more than that, it was his friendship that we shall always cherish. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit shall go on forever within this university."
Kevin Brady (R-The Woodlands)
"In our lifetime, few will meet a greater visionary than George Mitchell. I had the great honor of working with him to help grow The Woodlands, and in this community he has left a living legacy for generations of families and businesses. He is truly the Father of The Woodlands.
"Mr. Mitchell's generous spirit has blessed our community in many ways, from education to faith, research to the arts. And his vision for research and energy opened the doorway to the energy revolution that America is experiencing today. We will miss him greatly and his family is in our prayers today."
Houston Mayor Annise Parker
"George Mitchell leaves a lasting legacy that includes community-building, philanthropy and a passion for the arts. His ambition and success have transformed our region, from The Strand in Galveston to building The Woodlands into a city of the future. He was a visionary, and showed his love for Houston through his work and hometown pride. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, as we commemorate his life and indelible contributions to Houston and the surrounding region."
Below is a statement from the Mitchell family
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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&amb;M University, developing the first master-planned community, 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./p>
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.
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