The Martinsburg and Berkeley County communities are mourning the loss of one of their most dedicated public servants—George Karos. A lifelong resident of Martinsburg, Karos passed away on Sunday at Hospice of the Panhandle’s in-patient facility, leaving behind a powerful legacy of leadership, kindness, and community dedication.
Karos served Martinsburg faithfully for nearly half a century—first as an at-large city council member from 1976 to 2000, and then as mayor for an additional 20 years. During that time, he became a symbol of commitment and progress, helping shape the city into what it is today.
Before entering public office, Karos owned and operated Patterson’s Drug Store, where he served not only as a pharmacist but also as a trusted friend to many residents. He retired in 2015 but remained an active and influential voice in Martinsburg’s growth and development.
His contributions to Martinsburg extended far beyond city hall. Karos was a driving force behind revitalization projects across the city, especially the historic downtown district. He played a central role in creating Main Street Martinsburg and launching the Martinsburg Initiative—programs that brought energy, pride, and safety to the city’s heart.
Karos was also deeply involved in many civic and professional organizations, including the West Virginia Board of Pharmacy, the Berkeley County Development Authority, Rotary and Elks clubs, and the Eastern Panhandle Builders Association. Through these affiliations, he forged relationships that benefited Martinsburg for decades.
Former Martinsburg Police Chief George Swartwood praised Karos’ leadership and character, calling him a “great and kind man” and “a true icon of our community.” Swartwood credited Karos with being instrumental in countless city projects during his time as mayor.
In 2022, his longtime service was formally recognized in a state legislative resolution. The document highlighted a remarkable list of accomplishments: building the current city hall in the 1980s, developing Foxcroft Avenue’s commercial district, annexing over 700 acres west of I-81, constructing the Caperton Train Station, redesigning the town square, and completing the Raleigh Street Extension.
That extension project—linking West Race Street to Edwin Miller Boulevard—was one of Karos’ proudest achievements. Martinsburg Mayor Kevin Knowles said it took Karos 30 years of persistence to see it through. “He had a way of communicating that brought people together,” Knowles said. “Even if you disagreed, you’d still go to dinner as friends.”
Berkeley County Commission President Eddie Gochenour echoed those sentiments, noting that the Raleigh Street Extension and many other initiatives “will forever be a testament to the mayor’s steadfast resolve for the betterment of the community.”
Maria Lorensen, former editor of The Journal and current development director at Hospice of the Panhandle, remembered Karos as not only a remarkable leader but a generous community philanthropist. “He was a wonderful mayor, councilperson, pharmacist, and community member,” she said. “He gave so much to so many.”
George Karos lived a life of service, unity, and progress. He made an unforgettable impact on Martinsburg and its people—through his leadership, his generosity, and his deep love for the place he called home. His legacy will live on in every street improved, every initiative launched, and every neighbor helped along the way.
