Obituary of Marion Frank Earley
Marion Franklin “Frank” Earley
Marion Franklin Earley, age 88, passed away on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at Lightways Hospice in Joliet. He was born on August 21, 1937, in Birmingham, Alabama, the son of the late Clyde Maynard and Bessie Louise (nee Askew) Earley. Frank lived a life marked by courage, dedication, and quiet generosity, leaving a legacy of service to his country, devotion to his family, and kindness to all who knew him.
Frank proudly served first in the United States Army and went on to retire from the United States Navy, where he was a Navy SEAL. His distinguished military career was recognized with numerous honors, including two Silver Stars, a Purple Heart, a Commendation Medal with bronze “V” for valor, four Good Conduct Medals, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal. His service reflected the very best of his character—handy, courageous, and selfless.
Committed to education as well as service, Frank earned a master’s degree in addition to three bachelor’s degrees. Even after retiring from the Navy, he never truly “retired.” He kept busy as a handyman, generously sharing his skills and know-how with others. He also taught concealed carry classes in Illinois, continuing his lifelong commitment to responsibility, safety, and mentorship.
Frank met the love of his life, Patricia (nee Torba), in Florida, and the two shared 45 years of marriage. Known for his great sense of humor, he told the best dad jokes and brought laughter into any room. He also had an amazing singing voice—so memorable, in fact, that it was how he chose to propose. Whether he was sharing a song, fixing something that was broken, or simply telling a joke at just the right time, Frank had a remarkable way of making others feel at ease and loved.
He enjoyed the simple joys of life, especially fishing, and treasured time spent with his family.
Frank is survived by his loving wife, Patricia (nee Torba) Earley; his children, Mary Earley, Marianne (Percy) Coker, and DeAnne (the late Antonio) Almeida; three grandchildren, Rebecca, Jimmy, and Kimberly McGowan; one brother, James (Laney) Earley; and his faithful canine companion, “Lucky.” Numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews also survive, each carrying a part of his memory forward.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Clyde Maynard Earley, Jr.; two sisters, Joyce Brooks and Frances Ingram; and his two loving canine companions, “Butkus” and “Pepper”.
Funeral services for Marion Franklin Earley will be held at 9:30 a.m., on Monday, February 2, 2016, at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black at Essington Rds., Joliet. Interment will follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, IL with full military honors held under the auspices of the United States Navy, the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery Memorial Squad and the IL Patriot Guard. Visitation will be held at the funeral home chapel on Sunday 2:00 to 6:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Lightways Hospice or the Will County Humane Society would be very much appreciated.
For more information, please call 815- 741-5500 or you may visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.
