FRANKLIN – James A. “Jim” Corey, 64, passed away July 19, 2013, in Ellsworth, surrounded by family after a short battle with liver cancer. He was born Dec. 21, 1948, in Bangor, the fourth child of Harold John and Ethel Beatrice (Montgomery) Corey.
Jim graduated from John Bapst High School, class of 1966, and continued his education at the University of Maine, Farmington, class of 1970, where he was president of his fraternity, Phi Sigma Pi. Jim furthered his education with a master’s degree in education from the University of Maine, Orono, as he pursued his career in education. Jim, the quintessential teacher, spent 37 years as an educator. Starting his professional career at the Vickery School, Pittsfield, he moved on to teach in Bangor at Harlow Street, Fifth Street, Abraham Lincoln, Fruit Street and Mary Snow schools. Jim also taught in Sarasota County, Florida, and at RSU 24 in Sullivan. In his professional capacity, Jim served as president of the Bangor Education Association and on the Board of Directors for the Maine Education Association. While teaching in Sarasota County, Florida, he was awarded the distinction of Teacher of the Year. Mr. Corey was both respected and liked by his students, a special honor that does not come to all who teach.
He is survived by his spouse and partner in life for more than 22 years, Robert “Bob” Cambridge; brother, John and wife, Vickie, of Farmington; sisters, Barbara Willey and husband, James, of Portland, and Sharon Coffey and husband, Chuck, of Brewer; Bob’s children, Ryan and family of Farmville, Va., and Sandy and family of Corpus Christie, Texas; and many nieces and nephews. Jim was a people person and will be sadly missed by his extended family and friends, especially his cousin, Margaret Clancey of Orono and partner, Beth White.
Calling hours will be held 2-3 p.m. Wednesday, July 24, at Jordan-Fernald, 113 Franklin St., Ellsworth, where a celebration of Jim’s life will be held 3 p.m. There will be a time for sharing stories and thoughts about Jim’s life. Feel free to speak from the heart or write a comment to be shared. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim’s memory to Emmaus Center, P.O. Box 811, Ellsworth, ME 04605. Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com.
James A. ‘Jim’ Corey
