George Phillippe Rizkallah

George Phillippe Rizkallah, age 66, of Shelby, NC, passed away on November 6, 2025. George was preceded in death by his parents Phillippe and Jamileh Rizkallah and brother Ibrahim Rizkallah. Left to cherish his memory, is his wife Billie Ann and children, Shannon Froehlich (Dan), Callie Acuff (Josh), Warren Gheen (Lynnae), eight grandchildren as well as sister-in-law, Marilyn Cantrell (Don), three nephews, and two great nieces. Additionally, George leaves behind his sisters Marie Rizkallah of England, Georgette Rizkallah of Lebanon, Sally Thomas (John) of Reno, Nevada, and brother Elias Rizkallah of Lebanon.

George was born in Lebanon and moved to Nigeria for two years before coming to the United States at the age of 17, arriving fluent in Arabic, Greek, Italian, and French but knew little English. A fast learner who cherished being in America, George quickly assimilated to life in Illinois where he lived briefly. Desiring better weather, he moved to Charlotte where he took Business Administration courses at Central Piedmont Community College while working at McCabe’s Restaurant, Southern 500 Restaurant, and then Athens Restaurant. Next, George moved to Shelby and worked at City Restaurant, Shelby Cafe, and Turbo. In 2001, George returned to Shelby Cafe as co-owner. Within the 24 years that George managed the Cafe and with the love of his life, Billie, by his side, the iconic restaurant realized the best period of its 101 year history. In his retirement, George delighted many former Shelby Cafe patrons with tasty meals while he served as chef at Navion.

A most gentle and kind man, George demonstrated his love and care of others through his gift of hospitality, faithful calls to check on his loved ones, the ABC Tuesday Meetings at his house, dropping off a container or two of his signature vegetable soup to neighbors, or constantly sending food home with his family. Measuring wealth by love given and received, he was extremely rich. George will be remembered for all his goodness.

A celebration of life will be held at 12 PM, Monday, November 10th at Clay-Barnette Funeral Home with family receiving friends one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, please donate  to Hope’s Chest in memory of George for The George Cat Fund.