During the tough times of the Depression, GR served this town's citizens as mayor of Stellarton from 1934-1937. Coincidentally his father James was mayor of Westville for part of that same period, possibly a Canadian first. GR's numerous contributions to his community would include:
- President of the Rotary Club
- Past Master, Keith Masonic Lodge
- Commissioner, Victoria General Hospital
- Board of Stewarts, Sharon St. John United Church
- Helped lead relief efforts during the Moose River Mine Disaster
- Organized building Stellarton's Second World War Memorial Fund
- Supervised the creation and construction of this elementary school, which bears his name, opened in 1966
George and his wife Mary have three children: sons George and James, and daughter Estelle.