Honoring Patriot George Estes: A New Patriot Burials® Marker Dedicated in South Boston

SOUTH BOSTON, Va. — September 9, 2025—A quiet corner of Oak Ridge Cemetery came alive with patriotic pride as the Dan River Chapter of the Virginia Society, Sons of the American Revolution (SAR), hosted a moving dedication ceremony for a newly installed Patriot Burials® marker honoring George Estes (1763–1859) and Robert Easley (1754–1814), both Revolutionary War patriots. The marker, funded by the William G. Pomeroy Foundation and facilitated through Virginia SAR’s Patriot Burials® initiative, stands as a lasting tribute to their service and legacy.

The event drew a strong turnout from both SAR and DAR members, as well as descendants of George Estes, who gathered to pay their respects and celebrate the installation. The Dan River Chapter Color Guard presented the colors with solemn dignity, setting the tone for a ceremony steeped in remembrance and gratitude.

Among the honored guests was Mr. Bruce Meyer, Past President of the Virginia SAR, who delivered greetings and read a letter of congratulations from the Pomeroy Foundation. His presence underscored the significance of the occasion and the collaborative spirit behind the Patriot Burials® program.

Mark Estes, a member of the Dan River Chapter and a descendant of George Estes, had the privilege of unveiling the new marker. Surrounded by family and compatriots, the moment was both personal and historic.

“We are extremely grateful to the William G. Pomeroy Foundation for providing and funding the cost of this beautiful marker. We are very proud of it—and to the Virginia Society, Sons of the American Revolution for facilitating the committee to approve the grant application,” said Dwight Spangler, President of the Dan River Chapter.

The Patriot Burials® program, supported by the Pomeroy Foundation, helps identify and commemorate the final resting places of Revolutionary War patriots across Virginia. Each marker serves as a public reminder of the sacrifices made in the founding of our nation and the enduring legacy of those who fought for independence.

With each new installation, Virginia SAR continues its mission to preserve history, honor patriot ancestors, and educate future generations. The George Estes and Robert Easley marker at Oak Ridge Cemetery now joins a growing constellation of tributes across the Commonwealth—each one a story etched in stone.

About the Pomeroy Foundation

The William G. Pomeroy Foundation® is committed to supporting the celebration and preservation of community history; and working to improve the probability of finding appropriate donor matches or other life-saving treatments for blood cancer patients. Established by Trustee Bill Pomeroy in 2005 to bring together his two greatest passions, the Pomeroy Foundation is a private, philanthropic organization located in Syracuse, N.Y. As the nation’s leading funder of historical roadside markers, the Pomeroy Foundation has awarded more than 2,600 grants for markers and bronze plaques in 49 states and Washington, D.C. To learn more about the Pomeroy Foundation, visit wgpfoundation.org.