Earley, an educator of young people for 50 years, most of it in the Dayton Public School System, was a longtime successful girls basketball, track and field and cross country coach at Dunbar High. She also coached at Roosevelt and Stivers high schools.
A Roosevelt High and Central State grad, she died last Tuesday at age 79.
She is survived by her daughter Alicia (Poochie) Brooks; son-in-law Brian Brooks; two grandchildren, Brian and Bailey, several relatives; and a multitude of friends, fellow coaches and especially her many players.
Rhonda Smith, one of her former players, spoke for many, when she posted her goodbye on Earley’s tribute page online:
“In loving memories of a wonderful person Ms. Early. As my basketball coach at Dunbar, you taught me so many skills that I treasured throughout my life. You were a superb coach, very talented and I was blessed to have you as my coach at Dunbar.
“You’ll forever be in my heart.
“I LOVE YOU Ms. Early and will miss you. May you R.I.P.”
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