Obituary

Coralie (Corey) Ann Balch Priddy came into this world on April 28, 1941 and left us April, 4, 2023 to join her parents, Wayne and Pernie (Logan) Balch.  Corey grew up in a small town in Montana loving hayrides and country life with her younger sister Lael. Through her early church life, Corey had the opportunity to live in Sweden for a year and learn about her genealogy, something that interested her always. She, and her dear friend, Carol Peterson, traveled back to Sweden in their later years.

Her marriage to Michael McCort produced a beautiful daughter, Shelby Lael McCort, and motherhood became her primary calling. Of her mom, Shelby said, “She left so many great memories and laughs. I do not think I have ever known anyone so human and so superhuman at the same time. She was generous with her love and time and knowledge, and there was always a calming way about her. One of her favorite phrases was “well let’s just wait and see. Let’s not worry until there is something to worry about.” Corey was also a major influence in the life of her cherished grandson, CJ(Corey) Keene, helping to shape him into the wonderful man he is today.

After Corey graduated from university with a MA in music and K-12 education. Her love of music stayed with her throughout her entire life and kept her active in later years in community bands and teaching. She was a master teacher, training many to the service of education. She was a born leader in education and later in her community. She served on the Board for the Bellingham Community band, created a community group for Birch Bay before moving to Ferndale and more.

Later in her life she began quilting, sewing and embroidery work. Corey was a collector of antique glass, especially Heisey Glassware. She was also a historian and genealogist of family history. Corey was politically active, highly knowledgeable and involved with her political party.

Corey leaves behind her daughter, Shelby McCort; Grandson, Corey J Keene; sister Lael (Balch) Pohto; stepdaughters Laura Basart and Tinell Priddy, and uncountable friendships all over the world.

We are grateful for her time with us.