Thursday, November 14, 2019 7:37 am

Reverend Bill Earley, age 69, of Forest City, passed away Tuesday, November 5, 2019.

Bill was born September 12, 1950 in Onslow County, NC to the late George Washington Earley and Elizabeth Bowen Earley. He was a graduate of Fruitland Bible College and served as an ordained minister for twenty-five years. He also worked as a cabinet maker for many years. He was talented at woodworking, especially carving and wood burning. He was an avid fisherman and a member of High Shoal Baptist Church.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Gale Earley.

Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife of 28 years, Melinda Wall Earley; step-daughter, Heather Anton (Tom) of Forest City; three grandchildren; a sister, Debra Earley Winters; three brothers, Ben Earley, Horace Earley and Tim Earley all of Jacksonville, NC. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

The funeral service was conducted at High Shoal Baptist Church. Burial followed at Rutherford County Memorial Cemetery.

Memorial donations are requested to the American Kidney Fund, www.kidneyfund.org

Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.