George Waters Mann Jr.

George Waters Mann Jr.

October 17, 1937 – January 2, 2026

George Waters Mann Jr., born October 17, 1937, in Bartow, Florida, died peacefully at home on January 2, 2026, with his beloved wife, Thu, by his side. He was 88 years old.

George is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Thu; his four children, Jeff Mann and George Mann III (Trey), Suzanne Icely, and Judy Montana; his grandchildren, Ashley Mann; Watters, Madison, and Henry Icely; Sadie and Micah Montana; and his newest addition to the family, his great-granddaughter, Eleanor. He is also survived by countless “Mann” cousins throughout the region.

Born and raised in Bartow, Florida, George attended Summerlin Academy, graduating in 1955. He went on to study at Mars Hill University in North Carolina before completing his civil engineering degree at North Carolina State University in 1959. In the mid-1960s, George left the United States to work for the U.S. Civil Corps of Engineers in South Vietnam. It was there that he met the love of his life, Thu. They later returned to Florida, settling in Kissimmee in 1973.

George enjoyed a distinguished career with the City of Kissimmee, serving 32 years as Director of Public Works and Engineering. Over the course of his tenure, he also held the roles of Water and Sewer Department Director and Airport Director. His leadership, integrity, and high standards earned the deep respect of his colleagues. In a letter to city commissioners, coworkers wrote: “He is without a doubt the best boss we have ever worked under, along with being the toughest. George Mann, with his greater knowledge, dedication, and many skills is one man the city cannot afford to lose.”

Beyond his professional life, George was a fierce competitor and lifelong athlete who achieved national titles in three different sports: sailing, swimming, and shooting.

In the 1980s and 1990s, George won three National Sailing Championships in the San Juan 21 class, as well as two North American Championships sailing alongside his daughter, Suzanne Icely. His cream-colored boat, Egg Nog—affectionately known as “The Nog”—was widely regarded as a formidable presence on the water.

When not sailing, George could almost always be found swimming. An accomplished Masters swimmer, he held national records in the mile during the 1990’s. A founding member of the Lake Cane Swimmers in 1990, he entered the 100K Club at the age of 70. At age 80, he swam the lake in butterfly, establishing the now-famous “ButterflyMann” award.

Over the years, George completed more than 10,000 lake crossings, including many especially meaningful swims with his daughter Judy Montana.

Later in life, George devoted himself to the shooting sports as “Cypress Sam,” a respected and legendary member of the Single Action Shooting Society (SASS). Known for his expertise, mentorship, and sportsmanship, Cypress Sam was a fixture in the Central Florida shooting community. He mentored countless new shooters, taught at Cowboy Clinics, and earned recognition as a Senior Gunfighter Champion. Ranked in the top 4% of all SASS members, George took great pride in the sport but treasured most the days spent shooting alongside his sons, Jeff and Trey—known on the range as Cypress Sun and Angus McNasty.

George will be remembered for his breviloquence, competitive spirit, quick wit, and a distinctive sense of humor. He is now at peace with the Lord, and his legacy lives on in the lives he shaped and the family who will forever carry his name with pride. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

To send flowers to the family in memory of George Waters Mann Jr, please visit Kissimmee Florist.