In Loving Memory, George G. Purifoy
Jan 8, 1945 - Sept 14, 2008

Olympus Dive Center is deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved owner and the captain of the Olympus, George Purifoy on 9/14/2008. George was a pioneer in North Carolina Wreck Diving and his life has touched many. We appreciate your thoughts and prayers during this time.

George is a native of Morehead City and a pioneer of North Carolina diving. He is credited with the discovery and identification of numerous shipwrecks off the coast of the southern Outer Banks, most notably the U-352  and the USS Schurz. Taking his first dive in 1961 with a double hose regulator, no BCD, and no certification, George became instantly addicted and after nearly 7,000 dives, the addiction remains a fundamental part of his life. A diesel mechanic by trade, George owned a repair shop for nearly 25 years. He devoted his spare time to diving and exploration, spending countless hours, not only underwater, but also dry and seasick, searching for shipwrecks. In 1975, the introduction of Loran C, the predecessor to GPS, revolutionized the North Carolina diving industry by enabling boat captains to relocate wreck sites. George began running a small dive business in 1976 with a compressor, rentals, and weekend charters aboard the 47', twin-engined Atlantis II. Business expanded in the late 70s with the purchase of Olympus I, a 57' wooden hulled head boat and the addition of Olympus Gym, Morehead City's first fitness center. The current dive shop was built in 1982 and the 65' aluminum hulled Olympus  used today was purchased in 1986, but it was not until 1990 that George's diving hobby became his full-time occupation. George was fortunate to be able to share his love of diving with his son, Robert.

George Purifoy passed away on September, 14th, 2008. He remains a member of the Olympus crew, watching over us daily as we continue diving to carry his vision forward. To join us in remembering George, please sign the guestbook on our rememberance page.

"Walk Humbly Son, Walk Humbly Now, and Cherish Every Step. For Your Life's Worth Will be Judged if Earth is Saddened When You Have Gone"