Congratulations to George Moretz of Hickory, LSC’s Philanthropist of the Year for North Carolina.
Lutheran Services Carolinas is blessed to have many wonderful donors each year, and their support is
critical to helping LSC fulfill its mission, “Empowered by Christ, we walk together with all we serve.” The
Philanthropist of the Year awards were created to give special recognition to select donors who
demonstrate exceptional care for LSC. These awards recognize individuals or families who have shown
extraordinary financial commitment and whole-hearted support for LSC.
“I’m surprised,” Moretz said about the award. “But I do appreciate the recognition.”
Moretz was born and raised in Hickory, North Carolina. He graduated from North Carolina State
University in 1964 and followed in his family’s footsteps by pursuing a career at Carolina Mills Inc. in
Maiden, North Carolina.
“My granddad was one of three people who started Carolina Mills. When he started having health
problems, my father became president and CEO,” Moretz said. “When I was in high school, I told him I
wanted to get a summer job. He recommended I come to the mill and see what they do.”
His fascination with the machines led to a 47-year career and following retirement he became chairman
of the company’s board. He recently decided to step down from that position but still serves on the
board.
Moretz is also president of the Moretz Family Foundation that was established by his parents, Helen and
Leonard Moretz. The foundation has supported many organizations throughout the years, including the
Children’s Advocacy and Protection Center of Catawba County, Safe Harbor NC, Habitat for Humanity,
and the Humane Society of Catawba County.
Since he is a member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, the foundation also supported Lutheran Home,
which is now Trinity Village. That connection allowed Moretz to learn more about LSC and eventually he
became involved in raising funds for Trinity Ridge.
“We like to support organizations that are run well, and LSC President and CEO Ted Goins has done a
great job with Lutheran Services Carolinas,” Moretz said.
Moretz Manor, LSC’s Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) group home in Durham, North Carolina, opened in
2020 and was named in honor of his generous gift to LSC’s Be The Light campaign.
“As the Bible says, to those people who have been given a lot, a lot is expected,” Moretz said. “I’ve been
very blessed in life. I feel like it’s only right to give back to the community and those organizations that
are working in the community.”
Moretz is married to the former Carolyn Shoaf and they have three children (Sloane, Ashley, and
Andrew) and four grandchildren.