George Sessions Obituary

SESSIONS, George P.

George P. Sessions, a physician who guided the establishment of the departments of anesthesia at three Atlanta hospitals, died March 1, 2023, at home. The cause of his death was heart failure.

Dr. Sessions was born on July 9, 1931, a descendant of Terrell County and Randolph County pioneer families in southwest Georgia. He was the son of the late George P. Sessions and Jessie F. Sessions of Dawson. His brother, J. Dudley Sessions, of Columbus, predeceased him.

An anesthesiologist whose practice was based in Decatur, Georgia, Dr. Sessions obtained his early education in the public schools of Dawson and Terrell County and was a graduate of Georgia Southwestern College, the University of Georgia, and the Medical College of Georgia. Following an internship at Macon Hospital, he served as a medical officer at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut, and then completed an anesthesiology residency at Charity Hospital in New Orleans.

Dr. Sessions next was an instructor in anesthesiology at Atlanta's Grady Memorial Hospital after which, in 1961, he founded the Department of Anesthesia at DeKalb General Hospital, which subsequently became DeKalb Medical. He was chief of that department for 20 years. He also established departments of anesthesia at the Scottish Rite Hospital and the Decatur Hospital, serving as chief of anesthesia for ten years each in those two respective institutions. In addition, he founded DeKalb Anesthesia Associates, P.A. and served as its president for 25 years, retiring in 1997.

George's interests encompassed far more than anesthesiology. He leaves behind an exceptional legacy of contributions to the community. He placed a high value on anyone who was open and willing to pursue education in whatever form, and he actively mentored friends and employees in a variety of subjects. His goal was to help them become their best selves. He approached all with respect and dignity and he tailored his guidance and wisdom to the person and situation at hand. He also listened attentively to others even when he differed with them. George's warmth, generosity and love for people were positive forces in the lives of many, and his subtle sense of humor enabled him to laugh with them all.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Martha Ann Hernandez, a native of New Orleans. Their life-long love affair stands as a model for all. He is also survived by his three children: W. Dean (Beverly); Neal B.; Dr. Annette E. (Joseph Eduardo); four grandchildren, two nieces and several cousins. At his request, no funeral service will be held. His cremains will be interred in the family plot in Dawson Georgia's Cedar Hill Cemetery.



Published by Atlanta Journal-Constitution from Mar. 4 to Mar. 5, 2023.
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5 Entries

As a child, I loved to look at my Mom's high school yearbooks. She always told me stories of her friend, George Sessions. She thought the world of him, and I loved hearing about his wit, intelligence, and warm friendliness. My Mom, Mary Virginia Pate (Weaver) class of 1948, passed away last May but I pulled out her old Terrell County HS annual to revisit that memory when I saw Dr. Session's obituary. May you and your family be surrounded by peace and comfort during this time.

Jennifer (Weaver) Prewett

March 12, 2023

I interviewed Dr. Sessions a couple years ago for a school project. He invited me and another student into his home, where he talked with us for over an hour. He was so kind, thoughtful, and willing to help. His passion for medicine and ethics really shone through the entire conversation. It was such an honor to meet this man. Sending my deepest sympathies to his family.

Deanna Altomara

March 7, 2023

I will always considered it a privilege to have worked with Dr. Sessions and to consider him my friend. What a great loss.

Kathy Davison

Work

March 7, 2023

Our deepest condolences to Uncle George's family. We will miss his warmth, wit and friendship. He was a wonderful active listener; a rare quality.

Asma & Musa Ghannam

Friend

March 4, 2023

Dr. Sessions was an exceptional human being. I am truly grateful that I had the opportunity and privilege to benefit from his wisdom and guidance during the 20+ years that I worked for him.

Shirley Jaques

Work

March 4, 2023

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