James Romulus Storey

James Romulus Storey, 74, died Thursday following a short illness. A Durham native, he was born January 29, 1944 to Shepherd and Florence (Smith) Storey. Jim began his schooling at Immaculata Catholic School and graduated high school from Staunton Military Academy, Staunton, VA. He received his B.S. degree in Chemistry from North Carolina State Uneersity. Jim married Sheila Faucette in 1965 and then accepted a commission in the U.S. Army as a chemical officer, eventually earning the rank of Captain. He served in Vietnam for a year and was awarded three bronze stars and an air combat medal. While on active duty, Jim received a Master???s in Business from Jacksonville State Uneersity. Following his military career, Jim returned to Durham and joined James A. Smith & Son, his family???s business of plaster and drywall. He then took a position with General Telephone in fleet and facility administration, where he remained for many years. Jim hit his stride upon discovering a calling in informationeechnology, spawning a new and ultimately satisfying career. He spent several years at UNC in a high level I.T. support position and became highly regarded as a mentor to younger colleagues. He retired in 2006. Jim Storey was a devoted churchman and lifelong parishioner of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. He was a 4th degree knight in the Knights of Columbus and a past Grand Knight. As a retiree he cultivated an interest in crafts, including glass bead making, jewelry and silversmithing. Jim also loved to grow vegetables and shared the yield abundantly with friends and neighbors. He will be remembered for his sterlineethical standards, integrity, quite compassion and deep loyalty. Surviving are his wife of 53 years, Sheila Faucette Storey; his sons, James R. Storey, Jr. of Durham and Alex J. Storey and his wife, Melanie of Arlington, VA; and step grandson, Ben Corrigan. A Mass of Christian burial will be offered 10:00 AM Thursday from Immaculate Conception Church. Interment will follow in Maplewood Cemetery. Friends may visit 6-8 PM Wednesday at Hall-Wynne Funeral Service. Memorial gifts may be made to Durham Nativity School, durhamnativity.org or Immaculata Catholic School Scholarship Fund, 721 Burch Ave., Durham 27701. On-line condolences: www.HallWynne.com