George D. Wiltshire III, a lifelong fixture of Virginia’s horse and hunt country, passed away on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at the age of 83. Born on August 8, 1942, in Middleburg, George was a man whose spirit was inextricably tied to the rolling hills and stone walls of his birthplace.

George was most at home in the saddle or in the company of a pack of foxhounds. A dedicated horseman, he found his greatest peace in the traditions of the hunt, valuing the quiet bond between rider and animal and the enduring beauty of the Virginia landscape. His passion for horses was not merely a hobby but a way of life that defined his days and brought him his most cherished friendships.

Before his long years in the fields of Middleburg, George answered the call of duty, serving four years in the United States Army. A veteran of the Vietnam War, his time in the service instilled in him a quiet resilience that he carried throughout his life, though he chose to be known more for the life he built upon his return.

George was preceded in death by his late wife, Lilas Persons Wiltshire, in 1996. He is survived by his brother, James Russell Wiltshire, 91, and a community of fellow riders and friends who will miss his presence in the field. One of them is his loving companion, Mary Munster, whose years of friendship and care brought him great happiness.

A Celebration of Life will be held at The Lost Barrel Brewing in Middleburg, Virginia, on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at 3:30 P.M. A graveside service with military honors will follow at 12:00 P.M. on Monday, February 23, 2026, at Culpeper National Cemetery.

In honor of George’s life, please consider a donation to a local horse rescue or veterans' charity.