02/02/2026
On behalf of our chair, Dr. William Collins:
Colleagues,
It is with great sadness that I share the news that Dr. George T. Singleton passed away peacefully on January 31, 2026.
After completing service in the army, George came to the University of Florida in 1961 as the initial recruit, tasked with building a new Division of Otolaryngology. He would remain on faculty for over 50 years. George flourished as an NIH-funded clinician-scientist as he recruited a cadre of faculty, many of which would go on to assume leadership roles around the country. He stepped down as Otolaryngology division chief in the 1970’s when he became chief of staff and director of Shands Hospital. Under his leadership, Shands became independent from the state of Florida. George officially “retired” from UF in 1998, but remained clinically active at both Shands and the VA hospital. George put retirement on hold to lead the Department of Otolaryngology again from 2001 – 2004. He remained clinically active and served as vice-chair until 2011.
George touched many different lives in so many different ways. He was an outstanding physician and surgeon, with special expertise in otologic surgery. As a surgical educator, generations of Otolaryngology residents trained under his tutelage, and many have gone on to make outstanding contributions in their own practices, communities, and institutions.
Finally, George was a proud husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. His success was not just limited to the operating, clinic, and hospital board room. He was involved throughout the Gainesville community in a number of different successful business ventures, setting a leadership example for his residents in so many different ways.
When I first learned of George's passing, I immediately thought of the phrase that "they don't make them like that anymore." For those of who were lucky to work with him, we got to see his clinical acumen, quick wit, and deep integrity in action. He was truly a legend in the field and history of the department at UF, and so many of us were blessed to count him as a friend, colleague, and mentor. He was 98 years old.
Services are planned for Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 11am at First Presbyterian Church, 106 SW Third Street, Gainesville, Florida. A zoom link will be made available for those who are unable to attend in person.
Linda Singleton has asked for a group of honorary pallbearers comprised of former residents to accompany George's casket. If you plan to attend and are a former UF Otolaryngology resident, please let nichole.haring@ent.ufl.edu know. In addition, please feel free to send any old photos of George to that same email, and be ready to share some memorable stories about George on Saturday if the opportunity arises.
https://www.williamsthomasfuneralhome.com/obituaries/george-singleton-m-d/ #!/Obituary
