Milton Ray Early, 93, a proud American who lovingly served his country and community, joined his family and loved ones in eternity on Aug. 28, 2014.

“Early” was a veteran, serving in the 15th Air Force of World War II and in the Navy during the Korean War. He worked and retired from the Naval Air Systems Command in Norfolk, Va. and Washington, D.C., after many years of dedicated service. Early and his wife, Dot, moved to a family farm in Harcum shortly after his retirement. He was a “Gentleman Farmer” and loved to drive his John Deere lawn mower.

Early worked endlessly for his civic associations and was an active member of many organizations. He was Chapter Chairman of the American Red Cross, involved with the American Heart Association, the American Cancer Society and Meals on Wheels. He was Grand Marshal with his wife of the 2000 Daffodil Festival.

He quickly became a part of the community being known as a “good neighbor and a man who could talk to anyone about anything.” Early was known as a charming, outgoing, determined man and will be greatly missed by everyone.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Dorothy Miller Early; his son, Ronald Yates Early, and beloved dog, Pal.

He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Cheryl Walker and son-in-law Bill; daughter-in-law, Darlene Early; grandchildren, Todd St. Louis, Matthew and Grace St. Louis and her son, Casey, Brad and Danielle Norris and Michael Early; great-grandchildren, Julienne St. Louis, Ella Norris and Scarlett St. Louis; brother, Reginald Early and wife Joyce, and many nieces and nephews.

A funeral service conducted by the Rev. Rita Staul was held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2014, at Olive Branch United Methodist Church. Interment with military honors followed in the church cemetery. The family received friends Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2014, from 7-8 p.m. at Hogg Funeral Home, Gloucester Point.

In memory of Milton Early, gifts may be made to the Gloucester-Mathews Humane Society, P.O. Box 385, Gloucester, Va. 23061.