Georgia Rae Motes Obituary Georgia Rae (Havens) Motes, a cherished mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2024, in Bethlehem, surrounded by her loving family. Born on November 4, 1937, in La Crosse, Wisconsin, Georgia's life was a testament to her resilience, kindness, and unwavering spirit.
Georgia was the daughter of the late Roy and Doris (Mayenschein) Havens. She grew up in a warm household with her sisters, Nancy McDavid and Ellen Havens, both of whom predeceased her. Her life was enriched by the love of her late husband, Ernest 'Gene' Motes, with whom she shared many joyful years until his passing. Though she faced the heartache of losing her daughter Kathryn D. Wiley-Motes, grandson Christopher E. Motes, and her beloved sisters, Georgia's strength and love never faltered.
She is survived by her devoted son, David Motes, and his husband, David Violett, who brought her immense joy and comfort, especially in her final years. Georgia's legacy also lives on through her many loving nieces and nephews, who will remember her fondly for her warmth, guidance, and the joy she brought to their lives.
Georgia proudly served in the U.S. Army and later as the housing director for the Army, earning admiration for her dedication to service. She married an Air Force member and lived many different places around the world and in the US. An avid collector, she found joy in her chotchkes, flowers, and a home filled with memories of her travels.
Passionate about exploring new places, Georgia embraced each journey with an adventurous spirit, connecting with people and cultures along the way. Her vivacious personality shone in the senior community, where she was always ready to help or listen.
Her deep faith guided her throughout life. An active Presbyterian and former deacon, she cherished the fellowship it provided. In her short time since moving to Bethlehem, she was becoming a member of her new church community and getting to know people.
Services: Calling hours will be held on Thursday, December 12, 2024, from 6 P.M. to 8 P.M. at the Cantelmi Long Funeral Home, 500 Linden Street Bethlehem, PA 18018. A memory tribute may be placed at www.cantelmifuneralhome.com.
Contributions: In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org or to the Military Womens Memorial, https://myaccount.womensmemorial.org/donate.
Services
Calling Hours
Thursday
December 12, 2024
6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Cantelmi Long Funeral Home
500 Linden Street
Bethlehem, PA