George Zilkha

George Zilkha, age 21 of Manchester Center, VT, died on Saturday, January 3rd in Miami, Florida.

George’s passion, energy, impeccable style, and vibrant sense of humor left a lasting impression on virtually everyone he encountered. Once you met George, you never forgot him. He had a rare ability to make those around him come alive, holding court as he shared emotional and exciting stories. He was deeply loved, and the sheer number of people who knew him, across generations, cities, and communities, spoke to the life he lived and the connections he formed. George cared deeply about his friends, and they knew it.

George Zilkha was born in New York City on December 9, 2004, the son of Katherine and Patrick Zilkha and younger brother to Ava and Annette. Two years later, the family moved to Vermont. He attended Maple Street School through 8th grade and graduated from Burr and Burton Academy in 2023. George found his home away from home in the fall of that same year, when he went off to the University of Miami, entering the Herbert Business School, where he studied finance. He was a member of the professional business fraternity, Alpha Kappa Psi.

George loved the finer things in life and wasn’t afraid to show it. An impeccable dresser, he was drawn to quality, craftsmanship, and the details behind how things were made. That sensibility showed in the pride he took in his work as a host, first at his hometown restaurant, the Crooked Ram, and later at Amal Miami. Wherever he went, he built meaningful relationships with his coworkers, guests, and strangers alike. The stories people have been sharing as they have reached out since his death have added color to an already overwhelming kaleidoscope of life stories. He loved meeting people from different cultures and backgrounds, especially those who shared his appreciation for style, quality, and the subtle elements that turn everyday moments into memorable experiences. He could turn any ordinary day into an over the top experience that made you feel a part of something bigger. His enthusiasm was infectious.

George was also passionate about clothing, restaurants, and clubs, the more exclusive the better. In fact, his family would often be “jokingly” told they weren’t getting into most of these clubs without him. This included his favorite spot, MILA Lounge, where he loved to laugh and dance the night away. He loved his friends, working out, eating fine food, creating amazing cocktails, and taking walks where he would often find himself being followed by aggressive peacocks. George especially loved Art Basel Miami Beach, not so much for the art itself, but more for the events and parties that surrounded it. He loved socializing.

Finally, George cared deeply about his family. His friends often shared how effusive George was in his praise and admiration for them, from immediate family to his grandparents.

In addition to his immediate family George is survived by his maternal grandmother Vivian Thomas. He is also survived by his paternal grandparents, Albert and Ghislaine Zilkha; Uncle Alain and Aunt Debora Zilkha; cousins Vincent and Valentina; Aunt Sandy and Uncle Ron Papanek; and cousins Clay and Ella and his family dogs, Tootsie and Eleanor; and his cat Rosie, who he tolerated. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Guy Thomas, and his cousin, Anika Papanek. George will be deeply missed by the many friends, classmates and coworkers whose lives he touched.

In memory of George Zilkha, the family has partnered with the Jed Foundation, a national nonprofit dedicated to protecting emotional health and preventing suicide among teens and young adults, especially those in high school and college.