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

Robert was born February 6, 1932, in Rutherford County, and he was the son of the late Estelle and Melvin Earley. Robert was a Korean war Air Force veteran, and a lifelong member of the Second Baptist Church in Rutherfordton. In addition to his parents, Robert was preceded in death by, his wife of 63 years, Elizabeth Walker Earley, his daugher, Melissa Kelly Earley, brother, Walter Earley, and one sister, Peggy McEntire.

Robert is survived by his son, Robert J. "Bob" Earley, and wife Leslie W. Earley, of Lincolnton, NC, two grandchildren, Daniel Earley, of Charlotte, NC, and Anna Earley, of Greensboro, NC. He is also survived by one sister, Helen McEntire, of Asheville, NC, also several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 10:00AM to 11:00AM at McMahan's Funeral Home. A celebration of life will be held at 11:00AM Tuesday, July 5, 2022, at McMahan's Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend Dr. Keith Stephenson officiating. Interment will follow the service at Rutherfordton City Cemetery with Military Honors provided by the 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 the Carolina Foothills, P.O. Box 336, Forest City, NC 28043. McMahan's Funeral Home & Cremation Services in charge of arrangements.