Family and friends in Manchester Center, Vermont, are mourning following the passing of George Zilkha over the weekend of January 3-5, 2026. George Zilkha, a third-year undergraduate finance student at the University of Miami, passed away suddenly, with university officials confirming the death is being investigated as an apparent suicide.
Out of deep respect for the family’s privacy, no further details about the circumstances have been released, allowing loved ones space to grieve this profound and unexpected loss. The news has sent waves of sorrow through both his hometown in Bennington County and the vibrant campus community in Coral Gables, where he had built meaningful connections.
Originally from Manchester Center, George graduated from Burr and Burton Academy in 2023, where he excelled academically and developed a strong foundation in business and mathematics that fueled his future ambitions. He carried that drive to the University of Miami, pursuing a finance major with clear goals of applying his analytical skills in the industry. Those who knew him describe a focused young man whose dedication to his studies reflected a thoughtful approach to building a professional path grounded in intellect and determination.
Beyond academics, George maintained an engaging online presence that showcased his creative and personable side to a wide audience. Active on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook under his own name, he shared glimpses of his life, personality, and experiences, connecting with followers through authentic content that highlighted his humor and relatability. This digital footprint amplified his ability to form bonds, extending his reach far beyond physical classrooms or hometown gatherings.
In Manchester Center, George contributed to the local scene through work at The Crooked Ram, a beloved establishment where his presence added to the welcoming atmosphere cherished by residents. His roots in this scenic Vermont town, known for its tight-knit community and outdoor lifestyle, shaped a young man who balanced ambitious pursuits with appreciation for home. Earlier interests, such as winning a young playwrights award in middle school at Maple Street School, hinted at a creative spark that complemented his analytical mindset.
The dual communities of Manchester Center and the University of Miami now unite in honoring George Zilkha’s memory, reflecting on a life filled with promise, intellectual curiosity, and the warmth he extended to others. Though taken far too soon, his journey stands as a tribute to one well lived—marked by academic achievement, creative expression, and the quiet impact of genuine connections. As family, friends, and classmates navigate this heartbreak, they hold close the positive light he brought to their lives, finding strength in shared remembrance of his potential and spirit.