James Willie Ivey, Jr. died while surrounded by his family Tuesday, April 14th at Duke Raleigh Hospital. James was born on April 4, 1953 to the late James Willie Ivey, Sr. and Ruby Leggett Ivey. He met his future bride, Janet Parrott Ivey, at the age of 16. After a lengthy five year courtship, they were married on January 5, 1975 at Rosemary Methodist Church in Roanoke Rapids, NC. Soon they decided to settle in Raleigh, NC and start a family. They were blessed with two daughters: Kelly Elizabeth and Leslie Suzanne. James was an engineer by trade, and an all around Mr.-Fix-It.

Fascinated with history, technology, and any type of trivia, you could always catch him asking questions or sharing bits of random knowledge. He was a member of East Carolina University’s Beta Mu Chapter of the Epsilon Pi Tau Honor Society. A man of creativity, his Electrically Shielded Connector with Over-Molded Insulating Cover was awarded a patent by the US Government in 2001.

After many years in corporate America, he finally found his true niche in 2001 as a teacher. He began in Vance County, first in fifth grade, then moving on to Northern Vance High School. This past year he moved to East Wake High School, School of Engineering Systems. He was a beloved member of both schools, adored by teachers and students. James’ most endearing quality was that he was a man of great faith. He was a continual example of unconditional love and support. He had a giving nature and was always ready to help. He knew no greater way to be an example for Christ than to serve others. He was an ordained deacon at Wendell Baptist Church and a current member of HomeStar Fellowship in Raleigh.

In addition to his wife, two daughters and mother, James is survived by his three sisters and their spouses: Inez and John Futrell of Woodland; Margo and Ashley Smith of Roanoke Rapids; and Angel and Andy Whitby of Weldon; his sister-in-law and husband: Patsy and Lt. Col. William Aldred of Durham; brother-in-law Johnny Johnson of Advance; a host of nieces and nephews; and his grand-dog Gypsy Rose Lee. He was preceded in death by his in-laws John Thomas and Rebecca Parrott; as well as his sister-in-law Betsy Johnson. James’ family would like to extend a very special thank you to the doctors and nurses in the Intensive Care Unit of Duke Raleigh Hospital. Their attentive and caring natures helped to make his last moments peaceful and comfortable.

James was an organ donor and a frequent blood donor. The family asks that you please honor James’ memory by filling out your organ donor card. Donations in memoriam can be made to the Red Cross at www.redcross.org or to the Eastern Wake EMS at PO Box 84; Wendell, NC 27591. A memorial service is scheduled for Monday, April 20th at 4:30 pm at Wendell Baptist Church.