Tommie D. Harley

Tommie D. Harley, known to many as ""Tom"", departed this life on Wednesday, June 27, 2007. He was born on March 15, 1913 in Houston MS to Joe Willie and Minnie Leana Harley.

He accepted Christ Lord as his personal Savior at an early age. Tom grew up on a farm and learned how to work hard as a young man. He met and married the love of his life, Rosia M. Williams on October 4, 1937. Tom and his wife later moved to Broseley MO where he got an early start in the farming business. He also worked in construction, had an in-home barber shop and eventually worked with salvaged iron after a back injury.

During his leisure, he formed a singing quartet with neighbors in the local community in hopes of making it big one day but it never became a reality. He also enjoyed his horses, the outdoors, and gardening and even found time to walk his dog.

Tom was an avid talker and loved visiting with people where ever he went. He would often say that he never met a stranger.

Tom and Rosia had 15 children. He valued his family and long time friends. He also was a man of great pride. Later, he rededicated his life to serving the Lord and became a member and Deacon of New Home Baptist Church.

He is survived by his wife, Rosia Harley; children, seven daughters; Juanita Lewis, Shirley M. Woods, Geraldine Youngblood, Kathrene Tillman, Loran Walton, Brenda L. Harley and Marchelle A. Harley. Five sons, Tommy L. Harley, Homer L. Harley, James L. Harley, Melvin Harley and Dennis Harley. Although Leroy S. Harley is his grandson but he was raised as his son; 32 grand children; 27 great-grand children; 6 great great-grand children; 2 brothers, James A. Harley and Verall Harley; 3 sisters, Virrader O'Brant, Clara Thornton and Ola Mae Gatewood; a host of nieces, nephews and other family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Minnie Leana and Joe Willie Harley, 4 sisters, Rose Jewel Williams, Ora L. Williams, Willie Caldwell and Mattie Williams, three brothers, Dave Harley, Joe Willie Harley and K.C. Harley, two sons, Billie J. Harley and Willard G. Harley; and one daughter, Yvonne Harley.

Visitation will begin at 12 noon Saturday at Cotrell Funeral Chapel, in Poplar Bluff. The funeral service will follow at 2 p.m. in the chapel with Dr. Quincy Keeble, Sr. officiating. Burial will be at the City Cemetery.

The family would like to thank the staff of VNA Hospice for being so kind and generous; Nancy Foudhee for her loving care and support. Especially all those who called, stopped by, sent cards, flowers etc.

Tom will be greatly missed by his family and friends