Obituary of Florence M. Earley

Mother, Grandmother, Great Grandmother, Great-Great Grandmother, and friend Florence (Flossy) Earley exemplified what strength, forgiveness and compassion truly meant. Her legacy of love will live on long after her departure from her earthly body. Born October 29,1922 she remained a Cortland County native for 99 years until her peaceful passing on December 17,2021. Flossy was a diligent worker, an incredible cake decorator, and a pillar of strength for her family. A life well lived does not come without sorrow and Florence was no exception. With longevity comes loss, she quietly mourned the death of two husbands, all her siblings, three of her five children and a grandson. And yet she persevered. After her retirement from Smith Corona, she devoted her time and talent to her family. She was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Forever ready to greet her grandchildren with open arms, banana sandwiches, homemade cakes, frosting, her famous snow pudding, cheesecakes, or a dip in the pool under her watchful eyes. Well into her late 90s Flossy enjoyed trips to the casino to gamble, dressing up for Halloween, lunch dates, playing pitch, crossword puzzles, and family reunions. Her most treasured moments were visits from her family and friends, where she greeted everyone with her beautiful smile, a warm embrace, a kiss, and an "I love you." Florence was a proud woman with fierce determination. She taught her family to remain strong and resilient in the face of heartache and adversity. We remember, we move forward, with grace and dignity, to always hold our heads high for that is what she taught us. Florence is survived by her daughters, Sharon Small-Earley and Sonia Leaver-Earley. She was predeceased by her children Douglas Earley, Bonnie Nadeau-Earley, and Terry Stephens-Earley. Flossy passed away at home suronded by her loving family. The family would like to thank the Hospice and Palliative Care of Tompkins County for their kindness, compassionate care, and supportive assistance that we received during this most challenging time. For this reason, in lieu of flowers please consider making contributions in her name to Hospice and Palliative Care of Tompkins County 172 East King Road Ithaca, New York 14850 Per her request funeral services will be private. The family invites everyone to celebrate her life on December 23, 2021, at the Cortland VFW (76 Main Street Cortland) from 4-7 pm To offer online condolences please visit www.wright-beard.com