by John Reid

Dr. George M. Hampton, who was an iconic leader in the Prince William County area, has passed away at the age of 95.

Born in New Jersey, Dr. Hampton served as a U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel, research scientist, and as a philanthropist. A longtime resident of Woodbridge, he was involved in several community initiatives, helping several Black leaders in preparation through his mentorship and guidance. In 2016, the former Godwin Middle School in Woodbridge was renamed the George M. Hampton Middle School. Potomac School District Representative talked about what it meant to honor Dr. Hampton in an interview with the PW Perspective:

” I didn’t know much about him, but I wanted to know who he was,” he said. “We had a great conversation. I learned he was a former boxer and had a lot of energy. It reminded me of my grandmother. He was someone who contributed to the community, through his fraternity and philanthropy. He served our country when the military was segregated. Learning more about him through my colleague, Lillie Jessie, and getting great people like Joe and Andrea Fletcher helped me to understand why we needed to recognize the hard work that Dr. Hampton has done.”

Here is a video produced by Prince William County Schools honoring Dr. Hampton as the name change took place:

Woodbridge District Supervisor Margaret Franklin released a statement on Dr. Hampton’s life and his impact.

“Dr. George Hampton was a “a living legend” and a community role model. He was a towering figure in Prince William County who has had a profound impact on those of us who knew and admired him,” she said. “But his impact and legacy of commitment, honor, and excellence will resound across generations.  His memory is one that I will cherish and honor as I continue to serve the residents of Woodbridge.

“Following a successful 20-year career as an officer in the United States Army, Dr. Hampton served Prince William County for over 50 years, as an educator, government official, and philanthropist.”

“I vividly recall the sense of community pride when Prince William County Schools named a middle school in in his honor, to recognize his service and commitment. We must now cement Dr. Hampton’s legacy through the work we do all across Prince William County.”

List of Accomplishments: 

• Political advisor to the Prince William Branch of the NAACP.
• Member of the Virginia Parole Board as an appointee of Gov. Charles Robb and Gov. Gerald Baliles.
• Chairman and CEO of the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Board as an appointee of Gov. L. Douglas Wilder.
• Member of the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court Citizens Advisory Council.
• Member of the State Board of Elections as an appointee of Gov. George Allen.
• Member of the Northern Virginia Community College Board of Directors.
• Member of the Virginia State University the Board of Visitors as an appointee of Gov. Mark Warner.

To find out more about the George M. Hampton Foundation, please visit their website.