Longtime Georgia Resident Ira 'Bear' York Dies at 80

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Ira 'Bear' York, an 80-year-old resident of Trenton, Georgia, passed away on Monday, February 9, 2026 at his home. York was a graduate of Kirkman Technical High School in Chattanooga and worked as an electrician for Combustion Engineering for 33 years. He also owned and operated chicken houses and Crossroads Hardware for many years. York was an avid hunter and gardener, and was a long-standing member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church and later attended Bryant Baptist Tabernacle. He was a founding member of the Davis Volunteer Fire Department and is survived by his wife of 60 years, four children, and numerous grandchildren.

Why it matters

Ira 'Bear' York's passing marks the end of an era for the Trenton community, where he was a well-known and respected figure. His involvement in the local fire department, church, and family business highlights the importance of community engagement and service, values that are increasingly rare in today's fast-paced world.

The details

York worked as an electrician for Combustion Engineering for 33 years before owning and operating chicken houses and Crossroads Hardware for many years. He was an avid hunter and gardener, and was a long-standing member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church before later attending Bryant Baptist Tabernacle. York was also a founding member of the Davis Volunteer Fire Department.

• Ira 'Bear' York passed away on Monday, February 9, 2026.
• Funeral services will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026.

What’s next

Funeral services for Ira 'Bear' York will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026 at 1:30 p.m. in the funeral home chapel.