Steve Early

Steven Lee Early passed from this life and into the presence of his Savior, Jesus Christ, on July 1, 2024.

Steve was born to Curtis Early and Nancy (Lindsey) Early in Dayton, Ohio, on September 15, 1957.

He graduated from Twin Valley South High School in 1976 and continued his education in a mechanics’ trade school before entering the workforce. He was a machinist at Parker Hannifan for nearly 30 years, and in 2020, he enthusiastically retired the instant he was able. In retirement, Steve could often be found fishing in mild weather, cursing the heat or cold under his breath, while watching old westerns for the other 9 months of the year. He loved classic cars, his little dog Scooter, and his country with all of his heart.  He has probably already found the best little watering hole up in Heaven at which to fish, enjoy sunsets, and talk with Jesus. If there is ever a snowstorm in Heaven, we all know he’ll be the first to jump on a snowplow to clear those beautiful streets of gold.

He was predeceased by his mother, Nancy, and his stepson, Paul Bowers; he is survived by his son, John (Lisa) Early, assistant pastor and church music director in Horseheads, New York; his daughter, Misty (Daniel) Wilder of Guatemala, where she serves as a missionary bringing the gospel to the mountains of Central America; his daughter Elizabeth Early of Englewood, Ohio; and his daughter, Anastasia Gutierrez of Jamestown, Ohio. He is also survived by his father and stepmother, Curtis and Dorothy (Moberly) Early of West Alexandria, Ohio; his brother, Kent Early of St. Cloud, Florida; his sister, Pamela Early of West Alexandria, Ohio; along with his stepbrothers Dan (Vicki) Ehler, Tom (Kristin) Ehler, and Mike (Amy) Ehler, all residing in West Alexandria, Ohio; plus many other beloved family members near and far.

A quiet man, Steve voiced his strong love for those in his life with acts of service, and he was always happy to help behind the scenes and support his friends and loved ones in any way that he could. He touched many lives, and although his passing leaves a hole in many hearts, his joyful memory will live on through many.

The family will hold visitation at Preble Memory Gardens in West Alexandria starting at 10:00 AM on Saturday, July 6.  A memorial service will immediately follow at 12:00 PM.