SAVANNAH, Ga. () — Beloved Savannah businessman Cliff McCurry passed away Thursday night, his family confirmed.

McCurry was serving as the Director of Community Development at Sterling Seacrest Pritchard, where he had worked for over 16 years.

He was inducted into the Savannah Business Hall of Fame in 2019. McCurry has served in different roles for organizations such as the St. Joseph’s/Candler Health System Foundation, World Trade Center Savannah, Savannah Economic Development Authority, Communities in Schools of Savannah and Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce. 

His son Jamie released a statement on behalf of the McCurry family and said, “Our father and grandfather loved the state of Georgia, and he took great pride in serving this community. His legacy of kindness, service and mentorship is an example for us and so many others to follow. “

Jamie said, “While we mourn his passing, we celebrate a life exceptionally well lived and rejoice in his Salvation.”

McCurry was honored in 2025 with the Distinguished Alumni Award by the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business.

Nina Gompels, a close friend of McCurry’s said, “For over 35 years, I had the privilege of knowing a man whose heart was as big as his love for Savannah. He wore many hats—friend, boss, mentor, promoter—and somehow managed to wear them all with grace, humor, and boundless energy. A gifted storyteller and tireless community champion, he had a way of making you feel like you mattered.”

Gompels said, “We shared a special tradition of celebrating our birthdays together each year, and I feel so grateful that we were able to celebrate his one last time on July 8th. He never missed a chance to care for others, whether it was leading a community cause or sending a message all the way to Costa Rica to make sure my friends and I were safe. I will forever cherish our years of friendship and the legacy of kindness, laughter, and unwavering commitment he leaves behind.”