James L. Early

James L. Early, 92, residing in Dauphin Island, AL, formerly of South Bend, died Sept. 1, 2014.  He was born Sept. 18, 1921 in Brazil, IN, and was raised in South Bend.  He was a graduate of James Whitcomb Riley High School, and Franklin College, Franklin, IN. He received his MS from Ball State University, and spent his professional career in education.  He began his teaching career in Anderson, IN, and returned to South Bend in 1952 to work for the South Bend Community School Corp. as a Biology teacher and coach.  His track team won state championship in 1959.  He then served as Assistant Principal at Riley High School, and as Principal of Jackson High School. When Jackson HS closed, he went to work in Central Administration until his retirement.  Mr. Early served on the IHSAA board for two terms.  While living in South Bend, he was a member of First Baptist Church. He proudly served his country in the United States Army, and in his retirement took a “trip of a lifetime” as he called it on a trip to the WWII Memorial in Washington D.C. with the South Alabama Honor Flight group in 2010. Included in the trip was a huge welcome home party at the Mobile Airport.  Each and every veteran had a very special emotional day.

He retired to Dauphin Island Alabama where he enjoyed playing golf, traveling, living the “island life” and serving on the board of the Isle Dauphine Golf Club as it was called then.  He was an original member of St. Francis Episcopal Church on Dauphin Island.

Mr. Early was preceded in death by his loving wife of 64 years, Mary Alice, and son Joseph W. Early. He is survived by his daughter, Anne (Jim) Heffernan, his son, Gene R. (Amanda) Early, four grandchildren, Eric Woodard, Kurt Woodard, Kristin Groves, and Julie Bellard, along with 8 great-grandchildren.

Graveside services and military honors will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, June 5, at Southlawn Cemetery, 61300 U.S. 31 South, South Bend.  Palmer Funeral Homes is assisting the family with arrangements. Donations may be made to the organ fund @ St. Francis Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 407, Dauphin Island, AL 36528. Online condolences may be offered to www.palmerfuneralhomes.com

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