After graduating from the College of the Albemarle, James Barrie received his Bachelor’s degree from East Carolina University. He was a teacher at Ocracoke School and later became its principal. A commercial fisherman on the Pamlico Sound, he also served as a board member for the North Carolina Coastal Federation and the Ocracoke Working Watermen’s Association. In 2013, James Barrie and Gene Ballance shared the NCCF Pelican Award for leadership in restoring coastal habitat.
James Barrie is survived by his wife, Ellen Gaskill; two children, Candy and Morton Gaskill; sister-in-law, Linda Gaskill all of Ocracoke; and a nephew, Joseph Gaskill and wife Stephanie of St. Mary’s, GA. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Joseph W. Gaskill.
In keeping with James Barrie’s wishes, there will be no service at this time.
Memorial contributions in his honor may be made to the North Carolina Coastal Federation, 3609 NC Hwy 24, Newport, NC 28570, or the Ocracoke Working Watermen’s Association, PO Box 1165, Ocracoke, NC 27960.
Twiford Funeral Home, Manteo is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed at www.TwifordFH.com.