Ealy, Thomas 'Tommy' E.

Thomas “Tommy” E. Ealy, 74, of Cedar Rapids, died at home Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013, from complications of leukemia. Per Tommy's wishes, he has chosen to be cremated. Daddy's Big Party will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Friday at Summit View Village Community Room, 100 Hames St. SW, Cedar Rapids. Iowa Cremation is entrusted with arrangements.

Survivors include his best friend of 12 years, Elsie Sibert; four children, Penny (Jon) Case, Mitchell (Kim) Ealy, Charles (Jodi) Ealy and Shawn (Crystal) Ealy; siblings, Merlene Swanson, Colleen (Russ) Levins, Mike Ealy, Sue Carvos, Joy Tiernan, Julie (Paul) Morton, Ted (Penny) Ealy and Marty (Lisa) Ealy; two special daughters, Terri (Frank) Loutsch and Tina (Dale) Dice; 12 grandchildren; 130 great-nieces and great-nephews; and great friends, Kenny (Nikki) Oliver and their children.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and siblings, Penny, Denny, Vicky Jo and Carolyn.

Tommy was born Aug. 11, 1939, in Lohrville, to Wayne and Ellen Lorraine Ealy. He was a Marine Corps veteran of the Korean conflict. He farmed in the communities surrounding Marengo and Millersburg for many years and later became a truck driver for various businesses. Tommy was awarded the “Million Mile” plaque for an accident-free record.

He always looked forward to the yearly Ealy family reunions, camping and fishing. The most important thing to him was to let everyone know he was always right and he was very proud to be called “Mr. Ornery.”

He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Memorials may be sent to St. Luke's Hospice.

Hey, Mr. Grouch, we will love and miss you.

Online condolences may be directed to www.iowacremation.com under obituaries.

Published Nov. 21, 2013 in The Gazette