In Memory of Gary Lee Stamey

Gary Lee Stamey, age 56, died Monday, December 10, 2007, at his residence.

He was born in Haywood County, but always called Buncombe County his home. He was a former resident of Cody, WY and Meeker, CO. He was preceded in death by a brother, Larry Ray Stamey. He graduated from Enka High School in 1969. After his military service, he worked in the Rocky Mountains for numerous companies and was formerly a western supervisor for NORPAC Exploration. He owned and operated his own business in North Carolina setting up and remodeling modular homes. Hunting, fishing, computers, and reading were activities Gary enjoyed.

He was a very dedicated veteran of the United States Army serving in Vietnam as a helicopter crew chief from February, 1969 until February, 1970. During his service, he was a recipient of two Bronze Stars, one Purple Heart, and 137 combat air medals. He was a lifetime member of the 101st Airborne Association and a lifetime member of the Vietnam Helicopter Crew Member Association. At the time of his death, he was a disabled veteran diagnosed with PTSD.

He is survived by his father Joyce Stamey and his wife, Bernice, of Candler and his mother, Barbara Holcombe and her husband, Carlton, of Weaverville; three brothers, Greg Stamey of Weaverville, and John and Randy “Baker” Stamey of Candler; and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service was held on Saturday, December 15, 2007, at Ridgeway Baptist Church with the Reverend Jack W. Collins officiating. Over 250 friends and family attended the services. Burial was at the church cemetery with full military honors.

The following photos were taken DEC 15, 2007, the day of the services for Gary Lee Stamey.

Comancheros on Gary Lee's porch in remembrance and in honor of him. Seated left to right; Martin DiOrio, Paul Cauley, Michael Gouch, Bob Car and Herman Schindler. Standing behind; John Stallings, Richard Bittle, Gil Jones, Ron Kuhn Marc Goodell, Jerry Wofford, Smokey Stover and John Riordan.

In Memory of Gary Lee Stamey, our friend, our brother Comanchero.