James K. "Big Jim" Story

James K. "Big Jim" Story

North Port, FL - James K. "Big Jim" Story, 69, of North Port, FL, unexpectedly passed away on Friday, August 13, 2021. Surviving are his loving wife of 46 years, Jeanne-Marie; his mother, Barbara; his sons, A.J. and wife, Jaime, and Chris and wife, Michelle; twin brother Larry and wife, Susan; and sister Linda and husband, Stanley.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, Howard, and brother, Bobby. Jim is also survived by five grandchildren whom he loved and adored - Landon, Riley, Raegan, Peyton, and Tucker. He also leaves behind his loyal fur baby, Yoda, nieces and nephews, and several other friends and family.

Born and raised in Freehold where he resided for 51 years, Jim graduated from Howell High School in 1969. He went on to serve in the U.S. Coast Guard.

Jim retired from Lakehurst Naval Air Station in 2001, where he worked as firefighter and held the rank of Captain. He also was a life member of Freehold Township Independent #1 (FTIFC) where he rose to Captain and was honored a few weeks ago for 40 years of service. Prior to FTIFC, he began his passion for firefighting as a member of Adelphia Fire Company joining in 1968.

Not being able to sit still in retirement, he worked at Target in Port Charlotte for 10 years. He also started up a small business called Big Jim's Woodshop. He proudly hand crafted beautiful wooden flags to honor those for their great accomplishments. If you were lucky to get one, cherish it forever.

The viewing will be held at the Higgins Memorial Home, 20 Center Street, Freehold on Friday from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m., with a firefighter's service at 7 p.m. Masks and social distancing will be required during the viewing hours.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather at the funeral home on Saturday at 8:30 a.m. The funeral procession will pass the Freehold Township Independent Fire Company #1 station followed by the interment at Maplewood Cemetery, Freehold.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Freehold Township Independent Fire Co. #1 (https://givebutter.com/FreeholdIndependent) or Oceans of Hope Foundation (www.OceansOfHopeFoundation.org). Oceans of Hope Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization.