George Edwin Story, 104, of Ghent, NY, passed away at home peacefully in the loving company of his daughters on Friday, June 28, 2024.
George was born to Clinton and Gladys (Cozine) Story on Feb. 22, 1920, in Freehold, NY. He graduated from Greenville Academy in 1937 and received his B.S. in Horticulture from Cornell University in 1942.
George began his career in agriculture with a farmstand in Freehold, which expanded to seasonal flowers and nursery stock. With the help of his wife and children, he continued to grow the business and in 1954, he established Story’s Nursery on Route 67. It was truly a family business.
The business flourished as George developed a reputation for cultivating beautiful plants, and the nursery quickly became the destination that it is today. He could still be found picking yellow leaves off the geraniums at 99. His passion and love of plants fueled his long life.
When he was not tending to the plants, George enjoyed bowling and golfing, which he continued to play until he was 98 years young. George was also a Freemason and a member of the Catskill Elks.
He moved to Ghent, NY, in 2020, and lived with his daughter and son-in-law, Pamela and Terry, where he brought love and laughter with his open heart and quick wit.
George was predeceased by his first wife, Jean Winyall Story, and his second wife, Marcia Earl Story. He is survived by seven children, John (Diana) Story, Stephanie Story, Douglas (Susan) Story, Thomas (Andrea) Story, Pamela (Terry) DeGeyter, Christine Story, and Dana (Azraelle) Story, as well as 17 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.
The family wishes to extend special thanks to all the Community Hospice doctors, nurses and volunteer visitors. Deepest gratitude also to our compassionate night aides. George enjoyed their loving attention.
Calling hours were Wednesday, July 3, from 5-7 p.m. at A.J. Cunningham Funeral Home, Greenville. Masonic service was at 6 p.m., Elks service to be determined. Family memories at 6:30 p.m. Condolence page is available at ajcunninghamfh.com.