Bill Early

William Archie Early age 92 of Dayton passed away at Rhea Medical Center early Saturday morning, April 18, 2020. Bill was born in Chattanooga on October 24, 1927 the son of the late Charlie and Grizzie (Blankenship) Early. He was also preceded in death by his brothers Kenneth Early and Wayne Early and his loving aunt Ella Mae and uncle Wheeler who helped raise him and his brothers after the death of their mother.

Bill was a graduate of Central High School, class of 1944. Shortly thereafter he enlisted with the US Navy where he served as a Seaman 1st Class during WWII, serving in the South Pacific. He retired as a cable technician after many years with South Central Bell. After his retirement Bill enjoyed going to the beach, being with his family and farming.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years Mary Ruth (Cureton) Early of Dayton, his daughter, Donna (Todd) Locklear of Dayton, three sons, Steve (Pam) Early of Ooltewah, Greg (Barbara) Early of Knoxville and Jeff (Tina) Early of Danville, VA. Bill is also survived by his six grandchildren, Jake Locklear, Laura Locklear, Beth Early, Spencer Early, Kirstin Early and Bradley Early.

Family funeral services with military honors will be held Tuesday afternoon, April 21, 2020 in the funeral home chapel with Jimmy Potter officiating. He will be laid to rest Wednesday afternoon at the Chattanooga National Cemetery.

Please share your memories of Bill on his online guest register at www.vanderwallfh.com .

The family is being cared for by the Vanderwall Funeral Home where they will receive friends in a drive through visitation Tuesday evening from 5:00pm until 7:00pm.