James “Jimmy” David Fey, Sr.

After graduating from McKeesport High School, Jimmy joined the first all-volunteer unit of the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He left for boot camp on February 28, 1973, envisioning himself as Robin Williams in Good Morning, Vietnam—but instead served as a Morse code translator at the Ramasun Radio Research Facility (RRFS) in Udon, Thailand. He returned home on February 27, 1976.

Back in the States, Jimmy hit the road with his brother Tom, working as a roadie and sound technician for his band. He later settled down and married Donna (Vasko) Fey. Together, they had two children: James (Katharine) Fey, Jr. and Samantha (Jason) Meyer. He worked for Westinghouse before purchasing ET Video in White Oak and later operated Jimmy’s Diner in the Executive Building in McKeesport. Never one to stay still, he even took up driving for Uber in his later years.

During his time as a corporate trainer, Jimmy met his second wife, Angela Fey, and together they had two daughters, Mary and Lexi Fey.

Jimmy lived a life full of adventure—so full, in fact, that many of his stories seemed too good to be true, including his claim of working as an editor on Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. But in his later years, the role he took the most pride in was his service to the American Legion. A dedicated member of Post 701 in White Oak, PA, he served in every position, including most recently as Board President and bar manager. Most evenings, you could find him at the Legion, sharing stories and enjoying the camaraderie he cherished.

Jimmy was truly one of a kind and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Norbert and Mary Fey. He is survived by his children and siblings: Norbert “Leo” (Phyllis) Fey, Elizabeth “Betty” (Dave) Fey, Mary Ruth (Frank) Sharp, Charles “Charlie” (Melba) Fey, Thomas “Tom” (Ginny) Fey, and Gregory “Greg” (Stacey) Fey. He is also survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Family and friends are invited to gather and honor Jimmy’s life on Monday, May 19, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Strifflers of White Oak Cremation and Mortuary Services, Inc., 1100 Lincoln Way, White Oak, PA 15131 (Sue Striffler Galaski, supervisor, 412-678-6177). The White Oak American Legion Post 701 Services will begin at 6:00 p.m. with prayers following by Jimmy’s brother.

Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made to the American Legion Charity Fund, supporting veterans in need. https://mylegion.org/personifyebusiness/Give/Donate-Online/Donate-Now?CashProductId=134413

To share a memory or condolence, please visit www.strifflerfuneralhomes.com