Palmer Lee Earley Jr.,

Palmer Lee Earley Jr., known as Tommie, was called home November 24, 2025.

He was born March 6, 1962 in Brownfield, Texas, to the late Palmer Lee Earley Sr., who was also known as Tommie, and the late Helen Joan Searcy, but was raised in the Bills Creek area of Rutherford County, NC.

Tommie was a member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church in Rutherfordton. He was an auto mechanic by trade, who worked at Discount Tire and Cowan's Tire for many years. He also worked for Gary Sane Exterminators.

Tommie volunteered countless hours to coach his son, Bryson, in football, baseball and wrestling. While coaching he mentored many kids and was a most beloved coach by his players and parents alike.

Tommie was preceded in death by his wife, Sandra Lynch Earley and a sister, Christine Tavernia.

He is survived by his son, Bryson Earley and his siblings, Anne Arrowood, Jody Earley (Melissa), Billy Earley (Denise); brother-in-law, Mark Tavernia and sister-in-law, Jennifer Earle and many nieces and nephews.

A family led memorial service will be conducted at 3pm Saturday, December 6 at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church with Rev. James Henson and Rev. Tim Whitesides officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:30pm until 3 pm at the church. Inurnment will take place at the church cemetery.

An online guest registry is available at www.harrelsonfuneralhome.com

Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.