James Chasey

James Chasey - born June 14, 1920 in San Antonio, TX, died March 24, 2005 at his home in The Villages, San Jose, CA. Jim is survived by his three children, Gail Chasey Beam (and husband David Norvell), James Allen Chasey, and George Donald Chasey (and wife Ann), and their mother, Doris Allen Chasey (Jim's first wife). He is also survived by his grandchildren, Niabi Chasey Williams, Garrett Allen Beam, Tyler Chasey Beam, Patrick James Flanagan, Colin Chasey, and his great-granddaughter, Jade Mahalia Scott. Jim's niece, Fay Samuel Wayman and her husband Carly Wayman of Boerne, TX also survive him. Jim's beloved wife, Pat preceded him in death. Jim grew up in San Antonio, where he spent many hours on the San Antonio River. An avid tennis player and golfer, he won the Texas Junior Golf Championship in 1940. Jim graduated from Jefferson High School, and attended San Antonio Junior College before his college and golfing career were detoured by World War II. Jim served in the US Army Air Corps as the pilot of a B-29 in the Pacific Theater and as a flight instructor at Luke AFB in Phoenix, AZ. He was awarded the Air Medal and Distinguished Flying Cross and attained the rank of Major before leaving the service at the end of the war. After graduating from St. Mary's College in San Antonio, Jim lived with his family for many years in Phoenix, AZ before moving to San Jose in 1963. Jim worked for Santa Clara County before his retirement and eventual move to The Villages. There, he was well known for his golfing ability and keen sense of humor. He was prouder of his consistently low scores than any holes-in-one, which he attributed more to luck than skill. An August 2002 edition of The Villager newspaper said, "Jim Chasey has done it again. The 82 year old wonder shot at 73 the second week of August." His many golfing buddies will miss his frequent presence on the links. A proud member of the Flying class 41-G, Jim became the President of this group in September 2004. He cherished the lifelong friendships of 41-G, and enjoyed their annual reunions. The family wishes to recognize and thank Jim's longtime companion, Virginia Mourton, for her love, affection and support. Special thanks also go to Jim's caregivers, especially Sharon Vera. Military services and burial will be at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio, TX on Friday, April 8, 2005 at 10:45 a.m. ALAMEDA FAMILY FUNERAL & CREMATION, INC. Saratoga, CA 95070 (408) 267-6262