Wednesday, July 6, 2022 12:01 pm

James "Robert" Earley, age 90, of Rutherfordton, NC, passed away Thursday, June 30, 2022.

Robert was born February 6, 1932, in Rutherford County, and was the son of the late Estelle and Melvin Earley. Robert was a Korean war Air Force veteran, and a lifelong member of Second Baptist Church Rutherfordton.

In addition to his parents, Robert was preceded in death by, his wife of 63 years, Elizabeth Walker Earley, daugher, Melissa Kelly Earley, brother, Walter Earley, and sister, Peggy McEntire.

Robert is survived by son, Robert J. "Bob" Earley, and wife Leslie of Lincolnton, two grandchildren, sister, Helen McEntire, of Asheville, and several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life wwas held July 5, 2022, at McMahan's Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Dr. Keith Stephenson officiating. Military Honors were provided by Rutherford County Honor Guard.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Second Baptist Church of Rutherfordton, 191 Green St. Rutherfordton, NC 28139, or Hospice of Carolina Foothills, PO Box 336, Forest City, NC 28043.