Gilbert Fredric Storey Jr.

Gilbert Fredric Storey Jr., age 78, of Thealka, Kentucky, passed away on March 13, 2026, at Highlands ARH Regional Medical Center.

Born on November 21, 1946, in Kingsport, Tennessee, to the late Gilbert F. and Velma L. (Coates) Storey Sr., Gilbert was raised in his hometown and remained deeply connected to his Tennessee roots throughout his life. A longtime member of the Bethany Presbyterian Church in Kingsport, he also faithfully attended Thealka Freewill Baptist Church in Kentucky. He built a respected career as an Emergency Medical Technician and served as a funeral attendant with Childers Funeral Home in Meally. In addition, he gave generously of his time as a Volunteer Firefighter.

Gilbert was highly active in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, serving as Past Grand Patriarch of the Grand Encampments in both Tennessee and Kentucky. He held the position of Grand Scribe of the Grand Encampment of Kentucky for many years and served as Adjutant of the Department Council of Kentucky, Patriarchs Militant. He was a proud member of Inez Lodge #286, Canton John C. Underwood #8 in Lexington, Solomon Encampment #109 in Inez, and Pleasant Valley Rebekah Lodge #116 in Paintsville.

He is survived by his wife, Wilma Castle Storey; his stepdaughter, Sandra Lou Goble of Blue River, Kentucky; two sisters, Pauline A. Storey of Gray, Tennessee, and Patricia M. Nedved of Kingsport, Tennessee; his brother, Richard K. Storey of Jonesborough, Tennessee; his special grandson, Andrew Preston Goble of Blue River, Kentucky; and several nieces and nephews.