Zackie Laverne Storey, age 87, of Elba, Alabama, passed away peacefully at his home on November 28, 2025.
Born in New Brockton, Alabama, Zackie was the son of Crawford "Daddy Crop" and Irene "Mama Irene" Mixon Storey. He grew up in New Brockton, attending school through the ninth grade before transferring to Elba High School, where he played football and graduated with the Class of 1957.
Following graduation, Zackie enlisted in the Alabama National Guard and later served his country in the United States Navy.
In 1963, Zackie married Peggy Ann Fuller, beginning a marriage that spanned more than 62 years. Together they welcomed their son, Mark, and traveled across the country to cheer him on as he played football at Zion Chapel and Troy University.
Zackie worked with Shell Oil Company of Louisiana before returning home to work with Bradshaw Pest Control, where he became a familiar face to many families and businesses in the area. He was fondly remembered as "the chewing gum man" for his habit of giving gum to children—whether their parents approved or not.
A lifelong lover of horses, Zackie rode until his health no longer allowed him. His passion for mules led him to spend countless hours riding dirt roads with his wagon and mule team. Many evenings were spent around campfires with his mule-riding friends, swapping "tall tales" and enjoying fellowship.
In his later years, Zackie could often be found at the Inland Station in New Brockton, where mornings were spent "solving the world's problems" and telling stories—of which he had a million.
Zackie was preceded in death by his parents, Crawford and Irene Storey, and his in-laws, W. R. and Sara V. Fuller.
He is survived and will be greatly missed by his wife, Peggy Storey; son, Mark Storey; sister, Boneita Page of Houston, TX; brother and sister-in-law Tom and Elizabeth Dyess; brother and sister-in-law Marion and Jady Fuller of Opelika, AL; and several nieces and nephews on whom he doted.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Westside Baptist Church.
Memorial graveside services will be held Sunday, 2:00 PM November 30, 2025, at McGhee Cemetery.