James Sebastian "Bash" McGilvary

DURHAM –James Sebastian "Bash" McGilvary, 68, passed away peacefully in his home on Sunday, August 24, 2025. He was born in Durham, North Carolina, to the late Robert Edgar McGilvary and Barbara Jean Brummitt McGilvary. In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his sister, Muriel McGilvary Tyler.

Bash had many passions but his early love of photography helped shape the rest of his life. His experience in the optical shop on the U.S.S. Holland in Holy Loch, Scotland led him to technical training in camera repair in Denver, Colorado and eventually opening his long-running business, Camera Works, in Durham. All who knew him well will never forget the depth of his sports knowledge, especially for his favorites: the UNC Tarheels, LA Dodgers, Carolina Panthers, and Durham Bulls. Sharing his enthusiasm for classic rock and jazz with others was one of the many ways he showed his love.

Bash enjoyed traveling, especially if it meant a road trip, the longer the better. His family and friends were not his only travel companions, his dachshunds, Buddy and Minnie, were also frequent additions to his many road ramblings. Friendship was always paramount in Bash's world. He made sure the connections he built over the years remained strong, stretching to all corners of his life. From the inception of the "neighborhood gang" in Durham and continuing through his days in the Navy and camera repair school, Bash always strove to form lasting relationships. He rarely met a stranger and always made it a priority to stay in touch with old friends as well as new.

Bash is survived by his wife, Nancy Bethel McGilvary; his two sons, Evan W. McGilvary (Sergio) and Randy W. McGilvary (Jennifer); his daughter, Celeste M. Humphries (Logan); his grandson, Sebastian T. Humphries; and his sister, Bobetta M. Waynick. A network of extended family members including an aunt and uncle, cousins, in-laws, nieces and nephews will carry on many cherished memories of Bash.

Please join those who loved Bash in celebrating his life on Friday, October 3rd at Old Murphy School at 3717 Murphy School Road Durham, NC 27705. Feel free to drop in anytime between 4pm and 8pm. If you would like, please wear something to represent his favorite sports teams. Please share memories and pictures of Bash for us all to enjoy on the tribute wall below!

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in Bash's name to Dachshund Rescue of North America (https://www.drna.org/How_Can_I_Help), UNC Hospice (https://www.uncmedicalcenter.org/uncmc/care-treatment/hospice/make-a-gift/), or a charity of your choice.

The family is being assisted by Clements Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc. in Durham. Online condolences may be sent to www.clementsfuneralservice.com.