RICHARD E. STEARLEY, Brazil, IN

Monday, April 10, 2023
Submitted

Richard E. Stearley, 96, of Brazil, Indiana, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2023, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on February 10, 1927, in Brazil, Indiana, he was the son of the late Samuel and Mary (McMichael) Stearley.

Dick was a proud graduate of Brazil High School with the class of 1947. After high school, he bravely served in the Army during the Korean War, valiantly defending his country. Upon his return, Dick began a long and successful career at IBM in Greencastle, where he worked diligently until the facility closed. Throughout his life, Dick was known for being handy, kind, and wise, qualities that endeared him to his family, friends, and colleagues. He enjoyed woodworking and has blessed many of his family and friends with his many projects. He also enjoyed gardening, riding his motorcycle, and watching his grandchildren at their sporting events.

Dick was happily married to his beloved wife, Gloria “Gynelle” Stearley, for nearly 70 years until her passing. Together, they raised a beautiful family and shared countless cherished memories. Dick was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who took great pride in his family’s accomplishments and always put their needs before his own.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel and Mary (McMichael) Stearley; his wife, Gloria “Gynelle” Stearley; siblings, Gertrude Stevenson, Jennie Stearley, and Clyde Stearley; a son-in-law, Ned Wicker; and a step-grandson, David Maurer.

He is survived by his two daughters, Martha Ann (John) Maurer and Mary Margaret Wicker; grandchildren, Marci (Matt) Stevenson, Kristi (Brian) Lickert, Emily (Justin) Staley, Ashli Wicker, Alleni Wicker, and Jayci Wicker; and great-grandchildren, Paytynn, Blake, Bryce, Chayse, Carter, Brylee, and Mackenzie.

In addition to his immediate family, Dick is also survived by his brother, Wilbur Stearley (Sharon) of Brazil, and many extended family members who loved and respected him dearly.

Richard’s kindness, wisdom, and steadfast presence will be greatly missed by all who knew him, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

Visitation will be at French Funeral Home, 421 E. National Ave. Brazil, Indiana 47834, on Saturday, April 15, 2023, from 1:00 PM until 4:00 PM. Services will follow at 4:00 PM with burial to be held at Union Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Union Cemetery Association 8205 N CR 300 E Brazil, Indiana 47834.

Visit www.frenchfuneralhome.com to light a candle in his memory.