Her absence from the squad named today for tests against Australia was offset by the inclusion of two newcomers in Kayla Cullen and Julianna Naoupu.
Coach Ruth Aitken said George had been an outstanding athlete and important part of the Silver Ferns for more than 10 years.
"We are very sad to see her go but wish her all the very best as she moves on with the next stages of her life," she said.
The national selectors have named Northern Mystics 19-year-old and Waikato-Bay of Plenty's Naoupu, 21, in the squad for the first time.
Aitken said their inclusion highlighted the value of the trans-Tasman league as young players were now getting greater opportunities which helping to build player depth.
"Both Kayla and Julianna have had strong ANZ Championship seasons and have continued their form with the New Zealand under-21 team," she said.
"Looking towards the next four-year cycle it is now time to give these young players an opportunity to take their game to the next level and grow a core of players that will progress through to the next world championship."
Silver Ferns squad: Leana de Bruin, Kayla Cullen, Katrina Grant, Paula Griffin, Joline Henry, Laura Langman, Cathrine Latu, Camilla Lees, Liana Leota, Julianna Naoupu, Grace Rasmussen, Anna Scarlett,
Anna Thompson, Maria Tutaia, Irene van Dyk.
Regular captain Casey Williams is unavailable for the remainder of this year as she recovers from ankle surgery.
