Georgia McMillan Bickmore Dummer

On Tuesday, August 27, Georgia died, the consequence of a massive stroke less than 36 hours earlier.

The medical staff at Intermountain Health Care Hospital in Murray employed all available human and technical resources to mitigate the damage, but were ultimately unable to do so. It became manifestly impossible for her to resume any semblance of meaningful functionality. Her husband and her five sons made a unanimous, excruciating decision to direct the removal of artificial life support and keep her comfortable as her body managed, in its own way, and in its own time, to shut down.

Her death at the age of 80 is a loss to all who knew her. Though she was in her eighth decade, her energy, enthusiasm, and engagement in life made her seem ageless. Her unexpected departure leaves a significant void in the lives of her family and friends, all of whom are hurting from the shock.

The earth has lost a bright star and heaven has gained a beautiful angel.

Born to George Richard McMillan and Ruth Peterson McMillan, she is survived by her husband, Arthur, her 102-year-old mother, Ruth, her sister Vicki Hollingsworth (David), her brothers, Greg R. McMillan (Suzanne) and Kelly V. McMillan (Joan), her former husband Jerry Bickmore, and her five devoted sons: Tony (Ana), Barry (Teresa), Kurrin (Deanie), Brandon (Jennifer), and Chace (Tori). She also leaves behind seven cherished step-children, Cindy McCandless (Allen), Caryn Johnson (Andy), Celia Underwood (Bill), Marc Dummer (Jody), Mindy Lokey (Kelso), Jennifer Dummer and Leslea Hunter and an extensive network of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, all who form a vibrant, loving extended family.

Her journey through life was marked by a commitment to love, grit, and service. She grew up in Millcreek and attended Olympus High School, where she formed lifelong friendships. At the age of 17, she embraced the challenges of young motherhood with courage and resilience. At the age of 40, she decided to attempt motherhood again. Her early years were defined by the relentless tasks of raising her rambunctious boys. She loved vacationing with her family. They were always up for a trip to Bear Lake or Lake Powell with their neighborhood friends and families.  As a young mother, she also served as Relief Society President of the 18th Ward of the Butler West Stake. She and Jerry divorced in 1991.

In 1981, needing to support her growing family, she opened a beauty salon in Holladay and named it “Jorja’s.” It was very successful and she operated it until her remarriage in 2007. She was a single mother for 16 years.

Her marriage to Arthur marked a dramatic change in her life. She moved from a small apartment to a beautiful and capacious five bedroom manor already decorated with many fine art pieces of paintings, vases, and statuary, etc.-but not enough, giving vent to her exquisite taste and artistic flair. With Arthur, she added an array of beautiful carpets, paintings, figurines and antiques, also myriad large and small collectibles, earning it the affectionate characterization of a “museum.” She spent countless hours curating their collections, and with Arthur, maintaining an impeccable yard and a garden of exceptional beauty, a source of pride and joy for her.

She and Arthur traveled widely, including trips to the Hawaiian Islands, France, Switzerland, Austria, Spain, Italy, the Greek Islands, Istanbul, Africa, Mexico and many resort cities in the United States, often accompanied by one of Arthur’s children or grandchildren, occasions when she became close to that family member.

When Arthur became the Chairman of the Board of The Gifted Music School, she was introduced to a new musical genre, as the school taught classical music to children. The Georgia and Arthur Dummer scholarship fund is evidence of their commitment. Over the years, they were privileged to attend many extraordinary concerts performed by students of the school.

Hers was a life about “Beauty”.

Georgia's passion for beauty and the arts was evident in all aspects of her life. She had a natural grace that drew people to her and that was a testament to her charm.  Though having no formal youthful music training, learning to magnify her native singing abilities by taking vocal lessons from two excellent teachers and dedicated herself to becoming a skilled performer who uplifted congregations and entertained senior care facility residents. She was a beautiful ballroom dancer, a talent that came in handy in the courtship with her husband.

In 1989, Georgia discovered the work of philosopher Byron Katie and embraced “The Work” with a passion that would define a significant part of her later years. She found fulfillment in helping others navigate their inner struggles and achieve greater self-awareness. By 2017, she was hosting a group where she and her son facilitated sessions using “The Work of Byron Katie,” becoming a compassionate listener and friend for many.

Her love for her family was a cornerstone of her life. Her dedication to her five sons was unwavering, and she supported them in all their endeavors, offering encouragement without imposing her own agenda. Her role as a mother and grandmother was characterized by unconditional love, and her presence in the stands of ballparks, gymnasiums, and football fields were a testament to her commitment to her children’s achievements. It was not unusual for her to sit for hours with one or another of them, as they shared with her personal challenges they were facing.

She loved road trips, especially with Art.  They loved the simplicity of hopping in the car and driving to their destination, enjoying deep conversation, remarkable scenery, and great food!

Her step kids adored her, one mentioning she “hit the lottery” with Georgia as her step mom. She was there for them, unwaveringly, and humble in her approach. She cried when these new grandchildren asked if they could call her Grandma Georgia. She was so selfless with all.

Beyond her family, her passions included self-realization, gardening, cooking, crafting, curiosity, and holiday celebrations. She took great pride in their garden, producing fresh vegetables and herbs that she used to create farm-fresh snacks and meals. Her Thanksgiving feasts were legendary! She crafted numerous dolls, pillows, and other keepsakes that her loved ones will forever treasure.

Her ready laughter, warmth, and love enriched the lives of everyone she met. She had an exceptional ability to make people feel cherished and valued, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and compassion. Her handwritten letters, filled with love and encouragement, remain as loving reminders of her deep affection.

As we grieve her loss, we celebrate the extraordinary life she lived—a life marked by love, creativity, and a deep commitment to self-care and helping others. Her unconditional love and spirit will continue to inspire us as we remember her with an immense amount of gratitude and admiration. 

If asked, her sons would each say “Our mom with her example, has left us with every tool necessary to overcome any obstacle that may come our way.  What a gift you have left for us all.  You will always be in our minds, exactly where you were here, Ma.  We love you Mother, more than you will ever know, actually you do know!”

To watch a recording of Georgia's Celebration of Life, please click on the tab above that says "Watch Service" or follow this link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/_NMrwW__utLNgc4s1dfT3pnhkxTZcM8rfELQDnuQZyx2NBP091IQH2T8xAi1D8zh.kce5Jt0bKJkkuW7L?startTime=1725730008000