Romie Early Jr.

Romie Early Jr., 94, of Salem, died 9:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 2, 2022 at Schneck Medical Center.

He was born on December 10, 1927 to the late Romie Early Sr. and Stella Hopkins Early.

He grew up in the Delaney bottoms with his beloved brothers and sisters.  Romie graduated from Salem High School.  Following graduation he enlisted in the Army in 1946.  He went to Fort Bliss Texas for training in the infantry and anti-aircraft artillery then was sent to Germany as a truck driver.

On July 5th, 1957 he married the late Ida Mae Kachnavage who passed away April 12th, 2012. They were married for 64 years.

He was a member of the VFW Post 6636 in Salem and the American Legion Post 41 in Salem.  Romie worked as a Teamster truck driver and worked for Murphy Trucking from 1952 to 1985.  He also owned the Old 106 Tavern in Salem. He enjoyed working on his farm and with his cattle in Washington County. He was also an avid IU basketball fan and enjoyed Nascar racing.

Survivors include daughter Rita Ann (Shannon) Hollen and son Steve Early of Salem. Four grandchildren, Clinton Baker of Salem, Robert Baker (Shelby) of Salem, Krista Baker of Jeffersonville, Dakota Early of Salem, three great-grandchildren; Jackson Baker, Nora Baker and Mia Sturgeon.

He was proceeded in death by four Brothers Mearl, Melvin, James and Wilbur.  Five sisters; Josie, Irene, Gladys, Margie and Nellie Faye (Sis). His parents, one son Robert Lee Early and one granddaughter Kayla Elizabeth Baker.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to the Washington County Food Bank. 

Visitation will be held at Dawalt Funeral Home from 4 pm to 8 pm on Thursday January 6, 2022 and Noon to 2 pm Friday, January 7, 2022.  The funeral will be held at 2:00 pm on Friday, January 7, 2022 with the burial at Crown Hill Cemetery. 

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