James Steven Corley passed away January 18 after a rapid decline in health. He worked at H2O International since 1996 as Warehouse Manager. With more than 40 years of industry experience, he was the go-to guy for technical questions about products and filtration. Corley’s vast knowledge of the industry made him a very valuable employee; he had a role in just about every part of the business.
Born in Orlando, FL, he grew up in Gravette, AR, graduated as valedictorian of his high school class and, after studying at the University of Arkansas, worked in the pipeline industry before transitioning to the water business. Corley got his start selling bottled water in his early 20s. In 1984, he joined at Bestech Incorporated and is remembered as an articulate man with a sharp intellect who often had to explain complex solutions in simple terms. Many of the designs and processes he created there are still in use to this day.
Corley is survived by his brother Mark; sister Ellen (Dave) Malm; niece Kathleen (Tony) Marleneanu and nephew David Malm and his family. “You were taken from us much too early, Steve. You were a caring brother and uncle, a hard worker, a supportive colleague and a good man. We’re going to miss you deeply. Goodbye, good friend. Rest in peace.”