Geoffrey Corey

Mr. Geoffrey Hodges Corey, age 90, of the Farm Life Community, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, December 26, 2025, following a period of declining health. He was a member of Piney Grove Baptist Church.

Geoffrey was born on October 18, 1935, in Griffin's Township to the late James Arthur Corey and Pearl Hodges Corey. He was an only child.

On January 29, 1960, he married Doris Pearl Perry, and together they shared almost 66 years. They were blessed with two children, Ellen and Jeff.

Geoffrey was a sought-after painting contractor for much of his early career. A true perfectionist, he believed in doing things right the first time and took great pride in the quality of his work. He painted many homes across several counties and was one of the few contractors who specialized in spraying popcorn ceilings. In his later working years, he became a row crop farmer, tending tobacco, corn, soybeans, peanuts, and cotton. Geoffrey farmed alongside his son, Jeff, for many years, continuing until Jeff's passing in 2008. He remained active in farming until his health declined. His farming operation, Geoffrey H. Corey & Son, Inc., continues today as his grandchildren have taken on that legacy, carrying forward the strong work ethic he instilled in them.

Geoffrey had a lifelong love of cars and enjoyed "racing" in his younger years, back before high-tech radios were available to law enforcement. Geoffrey was a longtime member of the Farm Life Night Fliers. He also enjoyed putting his wife, Pearl, in the driver's seat so he could hear the loud exhaust as she drove by.

Later in life, he purchased a 1957 Ford Fairlane and completely restored it, painting it a bright red. The car was driven to many local car shows and in parades, often by one of his grandchildren. He was a devoted Ford man and eventually owned five Mustangs, including a Shelby GT500. Geoffrey proudly allowed his grandsons to drive them to proms and other special occasions.

On the weekends, Geoffrey enjoyed listening to John Moore's Sock Hop, a favorite pastime that reflected his love of music from the era he grew up in.

Survivors include his wife, Doris "Pearl" Corey; his daughter, Ellen C. Nicholson; and his daughter-in-law, Janet W. Corey. He is also survived by eight grandchildren: James (Megan), Andy (Elisha), Ben (Brittany), Will (Farrell), David (Maria), Noah (Maria) Nicholson; Luke Corey (Kendal); and Hope Domecq (Carson); and seven great-grandchildren: Kolby, Trenton, Wesley, Riley and Ellie Nicholson; Jordyn and John Luke Corey. There will also be three more great-grandchildren arriving in 2026.

In addition to his parents, Geoffrey was preceded in death by his son, Geoffrey (Jeff) H. Corey Jr., and his son-in-law, Jack Nicholson.

Geoffrey will be remembered for his strong work ethic, attention to detail, love of farming, passion for classic cars, and devotion to his family. His legacy lives on through those who knew and loved him.

Family will be gathering in the Nicholson barn behind Ellen's home. Graveside service will be held Monday, December 29th, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Tice Cemetery in the Farm Life community with Rev. Greg Sexton and Pastor Jason Tate officiating. Pall bearers are his 8 grandchildren.

Geoffrey's family wishes to thank Gentiva Hospice, Anne, Robin, Alexis, and all his nurses. We also thank his caregivers, Shirley, Etta, and Sylvia for taking such good care of our husband, father, and grandfather. Your actions and compassion have earned you greater rewards. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Griffins Township Fire Department by Clicking Here. or funds can be mailed/delivered to 1487 Hollow Pond Rd., Williamston, NC 27892.

Joseph B. Paul Jr. Funeral Service is honored to assist the Corey family.