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Mr. Earl Small

Earl Small Obituary

Cobb County businessman and motorcycle enthusiast Earl Small died over the weekend in a helicopter crash in New York state.

Small owned two Harley-Davidson dealerships in Georgia.

Small is survived by his wife, Rhonda, and two sons, Marshall and Mitchell.

Smallâ€™s funeral will be at 2 p.m. at McEachern United Methodist Church in Powder Springs. Visitation will be from 2-4 p.m. and from 6-8 p.m. Saturday at Mayes Ward-Dobbins Funeral Home in Marietta.

Published by Atlanta Journal-Constitution from Oct. 21 to Oct. 26, 2008.

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David Warner

March 21, 2016

David Warner

March 21, 2016

David Warner

March 21, 2016

David Warner

March 21, 2016

Lynn Spence

September 9, 2010

My heart is shocked since im just finding out. This is Lynn Spence and the 2 of you have always been my greatest love. I will never forget any of you know that Rhonda, Marshall and Mitchell will be in my heart forever! Please know I will love you forever! We lost Samantha this year so i know what lost is! Please connect me on facebook!

david c sober sr (pappys auto )

January 15, 2009

My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.

Kathleen Forrestall-Storey

November 15, 2008

To Earl's loved ones,

Here is a poem that I find comforting and hope you do as well. He was our friend for 48 years.

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.

I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.

That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.

I need you here badly; you're part of my plan. There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.

And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years because you are only human, they will bring you tears.

But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain. Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.

But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

Today at a time there are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.

It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."

And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.

When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

God Bless,

Kathleen Forrestall Storey
Childhood "Little Sis" Friend

The Entire Forrestall Clan

Mike Takerian

November 3, 2008

Rhonda and Sons,
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mike Takerian

Lisa and Andy Leary

November 1, 2008

Rhonda,

Over the last year we have shared a journey.

May God bless you and the boys and all of Earl's family and extended 'family' with peace and comfort.

Bob Fremin

October 31, 2008

Thanks to Earl for all he did for the motorcycling community. He did a lot for the Marietta H.O.G. Chapter and will be missed by all of us. He will be with us on every ride keeing us safe -- of that I am sure.

Rhonda and the boys will always be in our thoughts and prayers.

Marietta H.O.G. Chapter

Carole Cox

October 30, 2008

Dear Rhonda,
My heartfelt sympathy to you and your boys--way too young to lose a husband and father. Although, I did not know Earl well, I was impressed by his warmth and character. He leaves behind a nice family with wonderful memories. God's Blessings,
Carole Cox

Glen Adelsberger

October 27, 2008

Dear Rhonda, Marshall & Mitchell:

We were phoned by the Stokes' about the tragic news. While it has been many years since we were neighbors, it brings back some warm and wonderful memories of the birthday parties and holiday gatherings we enjoyed with you all.

I often tell many how we know Earl Small and his family. Earl was a kind hearted, people person and family man who was always giving of himself to others. We were so proud to see his business flouish and family grow. Earl and I played some golf together and he tried repeatedly to get me on a motorcycle, something I regret not doing, especially with him as a teacher.

Rhonda & boys, Tammy and I want to deeply express our sorrow and want you to know as Christians, that we will pray for Earl, you and your family.

All Our Love,

Glen, Tammy, Lance & Lauren Adelsberger

Sig Lutyk

October 27, 2008

Our prayers goes out to the Family and Friends at such a loss.

Cheryl and Jimmie Snead

October 26, 2008

Rhonda, We just learned of your loss today. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you and the boys.

October 26, 2008

A Friend

October 26, 2008

Recently I overheard a father and daughter in their last moments together at an airport terminal. They had announced her departure and standing near the security gate, they hugged and he said, "I love you. I wish you enough." She in turn said, "Daddy, our life together has been more than enough. Your love is all I ever needed. I wish you enough, too, Daddy."

They kissed and she left. He walked over toward the window where I was seated. Standing there I could see he wanted and needed to cry. I tried not to intrude on his privacy, but he welcomed me in by asking, "Did you ever say goodbye to someone knowing it would be forever?"

"Yes, I have," I replied. Saying that brought back memories I had of expressing my love and appreciation for all my Dad had done for me. Recognizing that his days were limited, I took the time to tell him face to face how much he meant to me.

So I knew what this man experiencing.

"Forgive me for asking, but why is this a forever goodbye?" I asked.

"I am old and she lives much too far away. I have challenges ahead and the reality is, the next trip back would be for my funeral," he said.

"When you were saying goodbye I heard you say, "I wish you enough." May I ask what that means?"

He began to smile. "That's a wish that has been handed down from other generations. My parents used to say it to everyone." He paused for a moment and looking up as if trying to remember it in detail, he smiled even more."When we said 'I wish you enough,' we were wanting the other person to have a life filled with just enough good things to sustain them," he continued and then turning toward me he shared the following as if he were reciting it from memory.

"I wish you enough sun to keep your attitude bright.
I wish you enough rain to appreciate the sun more.
I wish you enough happiness to keep your spirit alive.
I wish you enough pain so that the smallest joys in life appear much
bigger.
I wish you enough gain to satisfy your wanting.
I wish you enough loss to appreciate all that you possess.
I wish enough "Hello's" to get you through the final "Goodbye."

He then began to sob and walked away.

My friends, I wish you enough!

Peggy Merrick & Don Auxier

October 26, 2008

To the family: Our family is very sad to hear of the loss of your loved one, he will be missed but never forgotten. Our prayers are with you at this time.
Peggy Merrick Auxier
Don Auxier
Peachtree City Ga

Andy & Francine Espineira

October 26, 2008

All that we love so deeply lives on in our hearts forever. May you find comfort and strength in your memories. We are so sorry for your loss, our prayers are with you.

Jessica Deresch

October 25, 2008

Mrs. Small
I was saddened to hear about the loss of Mr. Small. He always had a positive attitude when he came to our office. May God Bless you and your family.
(Peachtree Hematology/Oncology Consultants

Barry and Pam Brooks

October 25, 2008

Rhonda and Family,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. May the memories of his wonderul life hold you close.

Susan Gaddis

October 25, 2008

Rhonda,
We were neighbors way back in the '80s in Lawrenceville and lived right up the street. Here's a picture of our son, Ryan, wearing Earl's helmet and sitting on Earl's motorcycle. He loved it!
We have thought of you many times through the years. I am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.

Sam Smith

October 25, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Mike Cramer

October 24, 2008

I am thankful for the time that I knew Earl. What an incredible inspiration to everyone in the motorcycle, aviation, business world. May God give him a peaceful place in Heaven.

Glenn&Carla Macomber

October 24, 2008

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.

Mary Anna Hatch

October 24, 2008

My prayers and thoughts are with all of you at this time. Much love.
Doris Mixson Hodge's daughter

You know she would be there with you if she were able.

Mary & Michael Key

October 24, 2008

Your family is in our thoughts and prayers

Donna Meek

October 24, 2008

Sending a heartfelt sympathy for the Small family. You are in my prayers and thoughts. I'm so very sorry for your tremendous loss.
It was an honor to have known and worked for Earl. He was a smart, encouraging, funny, and very kind man.
I remember him saying to people in the store,"Don't pick on me because I'm Small!", and then just laugh.
He touched so many lives and would go beyond the norm to help people. I think he set a great example for living life to it's fullest.That life's accomplishments are not measured in passing tests, but being ourselves, learning from what we do, and being that special person to our friends, family, & loved ones. Believe in yourself and have fun in life.
He will be missed greatly. Thank you, Earl.

Natalie Johnson

October 24, 2008

Rhonda and boys,
My deepest sympathies are with you and your family! I will lift you up in my prayers!

RIDE ON

Gary and Georgia Charles

October 23, 2008

Our deepest condolences to Rhonda and the Small family. We are very sorry for your loss. He will be greatly missed, but never forgotten.

Elaine McCrary

October 23, 2008

Our sympathies to Rhonda, Marshall and Mitchell!

Chuck, Elaine and Casey McCrary

Shauna Swearington

October 23, 2008

I am sorry to hear of the loss of a GREAT man, my daughter and I always comment on the sign outside the Harley dealership on South Cobb and when I read that the owner had passed I was moved to leave my condolences...GOD bless!

sheila richards

October 23, 2008

To Peggy & her parents: I was so sorry to hear about Earl. All of you are in my heart & prayers. Keep those Precious Memories always close to your heart & know that one day, you will be with Earl again. ALways know that when your up on that mountain God is with you & when your down in that valley he is with you, wrapping his loving arms around you. Once again I am so sorry for your loss.
LOve, Shiela (Lynns sister)

William Kroening

October 23, 2008

Rhonda, Marshall and Mitchell, we are sorry to hear about your loss. I truly enjoyed working for Earl. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Bill & Donna Kroening

Dan & Gail Spaulding

October 23, 2008

Rhonda & Family,
Gail and I send our deepest sympathies to you, and the boys. If there's anything we can do, please let us know. From the entries in this guest book, he sure made many lasting & great relationships. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Love,

Gail & Dan Spaulding

Kenny and Elaine

October 23, 2008

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.

GUY WADE

October 23, 2008

My Condolences to the Family. Earl was one of a kind! I've known Earl since 1973. Earl's with god now!, may he R.I.P. I pray I will see you another day Earl , I love you Bro!

Janet Moots

October 23, 2008

As a first time buyer and rider I will always remember the kind words from Earl at the time of my Harley Davidson beginnings. He is a legend that will always be in the thoughts of the HD World.

Iris Thomas

October 23, 2008

So sorry to hear of the loss of your
loved one. However, there is a
hope of seeing your loved one again.
At John 17:3, Jesus said, "This means everlasting life, their taking
in knowledge of you, the only true
God, and the one whom you sent
forth, Jesus Christ. I found this to
be a very encouraging scripture.

However, in order to receive ever-
lasting life, one must be resurrected
if they are sleeping in death. A good
example of this is when Lazarus, a
friend of Jesus and the brother of
Mary and Martha took sick and died Jesus out of love, resurrected him.

When you get a chance, please take
your Bible and read John 11:32, &
38-45.These scriptures are very en-
couraging. After reading these
scriptures you will see that by putting faith in Jesus the son of God,
that anything is possible, even being
resurrected once you have died.

Sincerely,

Mona Stephens

October 23, 2008

My Deepest condolences to the family. Earl was a wonderful man and made a huge impact on the biking community. I will never forget him.

Jan Bush Stone Mountain H-D

October 23, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with Earl's family, friends and dealership. He will be missed by all those who knew him.

Joan & Larry Keeble

October 23, 2008

I will always appreciate earls benefits for Muscular Dystrophy. My son had MD and died from this disease. I am sure my son saw some of the benefits from his donations to Muscular Dystrophy.

Edie Duffy

October 23, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you. Losing someone suddenly is very hard. I will keep your family close to my heart.

Pamela Lancaster

October 23, 2008

Rhonda, you and your family are in my prayers. I will always remember Earl for his sharp wit and positive attitude. He will be greatly missed by many.

SCOTT ADAMS

October 23, 2008

MY PRAYERS GO OUT TO HIM FAMILY AND FRIENDS. IT WAS GREAT TO WORK FOR HIM AND KNOW HIM!

scott adams

October 23, 2008

My prayers go out to his family and friends, it was nice to work for him and know him.

Pam Tinsley

October 23, 2008

Lauren Tinsley went to preschool with Marshall at Fortified Hills Baptist Church. He was a happy and wonderful boy and Rhonda was always friendly and kind. Though we have not had contact with your family since those years ago, we will always remember Earl bringing Marshall to preschool in the side car.
Praying for your family at this time, Pam and Don Tinsley

Jeff Mabry

October 23, 2008

Earl is truly free with the wind in his face! He will never be forgotten. God bless the Small family.

Becky whitener

October 23, 2008

Earl was always so kind and had a smile for my three boys when they were young. My middle son Christopher was especially fond of him. He was a kind and generous spirit. Rhonda, Marshall and Mitchell,I'm sorry for your tremendous loss, ya'll are in my prayers. Love, Becky, Scotty, Christopher and Ben

Virginia Dial

October 22, 2008

He was such a great guy and will be missed by all who knew him. He has helped so many bikers in many ways.
My heart goes out to the family.

MICHAEL&CYNTHIA WRIGHT

October 22, 2008

TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS MY HUSBAND AND I SEND OUR SYMPATHY TO ALL OF YOU FOR YOUR LOSS OF YOUR HUSBAND AND SONS FATHER OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU.

Penny Golden

October 22, 2008

My heart goes out to Rhonda and his boys. I know that you are suffering a terrible loss. I pray that you will find comfort in all the wonderful things and memories that we all have of him. He has been a huge influence in my life and I am very greatful of all the opportunities that he has given me. I am very proud that he let me be a part of his dealerships. I will miss his humor, knowledge, and kindness.

gary cutler

October 22, 2008

With all my sorry when I read about earl death.I hope his wife and sons are doing ok at this time .I dont Know what to say.

Archie Spires

October 22, 2008

Earl will be surely missed by folks in the motorcycle and aviation communities. His name will always be synonymous with Harley-Davidson motorcycles. As a fellow dealer I can say he was always fair in his dealings with me and others I know. Our prayers are with Rhonda and the children.

Tammy, Dave & Tori Olson Spirit Driven Cruisers

October 22, 2008

On behalf of the Spirit Driven Cruisers we would like to express our deapest condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Small. He was truely a great man amoung men. Our prayers will be with you as his spirit guides you through your grief. Stay strong and take care of each other, i'm sure that's the way Earl would have wanted it.

Christopher M. Brogan

October 22, 2008

Rhonda, Marshall, Mitchell, and the entire Earl Small's "family",
It is always too soon to say Good-Bye. Even though there is relief at the end of great suffering, that does not dim your loss or sorrow. May happy memories shed light in the darkness of this sorrowful time.

Barbara Osborn

October 22, 2008

My heart goes out to Rhonda and the boys. I enjoyed working for Earl. He was a very special man. He will be missed by many people.

Michele Whitson-Rowell

October 22, 2008

Earl Small was a legend in the Harley-Davidson community much like my father, Scott Whitson. Earl was my dad's boss for the past fifteen years: but, they have known each other since 1977. Earl will be remembered to most for his generosity not only to his community through his monthly events; but, for his giving and caring nature to my parents. For my dad's 55th birthday, Earl, knowing my mother could not fly, gave my parents a cross country trip by train to California all expenses paid. It was racing season and Earl could have just flown my dad back and forth for the races. But he didn't. My dad is orginally from California; so, he and my mom got to go see his brothers and their families. They also stopped in New Orleans and viewed the country from their passenger seats. It was a trip they will always hold dear to their hearts. this is just one of many acts of kindness Earl has shown to my dad over the past fifteen years. My dad and Earl met in 1977 at the factory in Milwakee for training schools. He will be sorely missed. Our prayers will be with his immediate and extended family. God Bless.

james bailey ii

October 22, 2008

god bless and my prayers are with your family. Stn Mtn. H-D sales consultant

Donald Turner

October 22, 2008

The aviation community in Douglas County truly appreciate Earl's commitment to his other passion. He save our local airport and made it better than ever after Dodgie passed away. We will miss having him around and are very grateful for all that he's done and for the work that Peggy does there. Earl, you can fly freely now, no more pain and sickness to hold you back! Our thoughts and prayers are with Rhonda and Peggy and the rest of the family.

Gene & Jennifer Murphy

October 22, 2008

The world lost a great man this past week. Had it not been for Earl hiring me i would have never met my wife, and would never of had my two beautiful boys. I always respected Earl, because he was a fair and decent man. He is sorely missed.

Kelley Roberts

October 22, 2008

My prayers are with Rhonda and the boys. I worked with Earl's mom, Sybil, back in the 1980's and have many fond memories of her.

B-Bro

October 22, 2008

Gods got him another Harley buddy to putt around with. Thanks Earl you helped me out in the early 90's buying my Harley from me and giving me a fair price when no one else would you help my family when we were down. God Bless your family through these trying times I know it's difficult but he's definatly in a good place.

Wendy Davis

October 22, 2008

I did not know Mr. Small, but when I read the story in the AJC about him I felt compelled to write. As a mother of a child with Muscular Dystrophy his story touched me deeply. I have witnessed first hand the unbelievable love and generosity showed to these kids by local bikers and I wanted to express my heartfelt appreciation and sympathy. May God bless your family with peace and comfort during this difficult time.

Rick Knowles

October 22, 2008

To The Family of Earl,

I'm very sorry for the family and friends. Earl will be missed by many people, friends and companions of his fellow riders.

Susan Pettepher Ellis

October 22, 2008

A great man of the community will be missed deeply. My prayers are with the Small family.
God Bless

Chris & John Powers

October 21, 2008

Dear Rhonda, Marshall & Mitchell. We are so sorry to hear about your loss. With time all sorrows fade and memories grow dearer. With deepest sympathy to you all at this time of sorrow. God is with you.

Bryan Evans

October 21, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Janie Evans

October 21, 2008

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

Candy Hicks

October 21, 2008

I send my thoughts and prayers to the Small family I know the pain is heavy now but it will be replaced with all the wonderful memories you have together. My deepests sympathy.

Candy Hicks

October 21, 2008

I send my thoughts and prayers to the Small family I know the pain is heavy now but it will be replaced with all the wonderful memories you have together. My grestest sympathy.

Mike & Pam Wickham

October 21, 2008

We were fortunate to have met Earl in his early days of ownership of the dealership in Smyrna and we were always so impressed with his hands on approach with his customers. He always had time to stop and chat with everyone who came by. We no longer live in Marietta, but we still have memories. Our deepest sympathy goes out to the family as he will be greatly missed.

Cynthia Osborn

October 21, 2008

God Bless this family he will be missed the best Harley Dealer in the United States

mark phillips

October 21, 2008

I had several chances to get to know Mr. Smalls, each time I visited the Dealership he was there and greeted me and everyone else with a smile.

Alice Harley-Wosnig

October 21, 2008

My condolences to you and your family. He was a very respected business man and knew everything there was to know about motorcycles.

John and Jody Williams

October 21, 2008

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Linda Melton Koonce

October 21, 2008

My sincere condolences go out to the Small family. Hold on to the memories and cherish them. It's very hard losing a loved one.

Joseph Ford

October 21, 2008

I have been to Earl Small's Harley Davidson only once. Everyone treated me well and made my day. Mr. Small, you will be missed. My prayers are with you and your family.

Laura Parkinson

October 21, 2008

I live right up the street from Earl Smalls' Harley Davidson and frequent there quite often to purchase T-shirts.
Every time I ride by there is always a group of Harley enthusiast out front in the parking lot and they are always as kind as can be. You can tell Earl Smalls Harley Davidson provides a place for friendly neighborhood gathering and I’m sure that is attributed to Earl himself. May he forever ride the big Harley in heaven and look down among his fellow riders and keep them safe. May he ride with us forever.
My sincere condolences to his family.

Robert Evans III

October 21, 2008

Mrs. Smalls, you won't remember me but I was a limousine driver with Carey many years ago and I picked up you and the boys and we attended your church together prior to driving you to another event, I believe on Mother's day. That was the same weekend your husband rode to California with a High School friend who had purchased a motorcycle. I can't begin to tell you how much I grieve with you and your sons. I know he was very proud of Marshall becoming a Police Officer, and I know he will be one of the best. He was the type of man I wish we all could model ourselves after, Black or White. My heartfelt condolences to you and your family.

John Hill

October 21, 2008

I know he is on his best ride ever. He will be looking down and protecting his fellow riders. Everyone from the Killer Creek H.O.G. chapter sends there deepest condolences to the Small family and to everyone at the dealerships.

Buzzard
John Hill

linda parrish

October 21, 2008

As you sit in the still of the morning and hear the first sounds of the day we know that your loved one has passed over to be with the Lord. Thru your tears and sorrow he will answer and tell you he is fine and not to cry for him. He's on the otherside. Our Prayer's go out to Earl's family and those close to him. We will continue to keep you in our thoughts.

Bill and Genie Shaffer

October 21, 2008

It will surely be a lonesome highway with the absence of Earl Small. Our sincere condolences to his family.

John McGinn

October 21, 2008

Our prayers go out to the family of Earl, as well as the extended family at the delearships.

From the Moo Cow Bikers, Atlanta

Dan R

October 21, 2008

RIP Earl. I learned to ride at Rider's Edge and purchased my first bike from you. May God give your family peace through this time. Ride on my friend.

The Christmans

October 21, 2008

Our sincere condolences go out to the Small family. Hold on to the memories and cherish them.It's never easy losing a loved one.

Lance Dodd

October 21, 2008

You will be missed by all. Thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends. Indeed the motocycle world has suffered a great loss.

Lance and Vickie Dodd

Jackie Vann

October 21, 2008

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Debbie Calvin

October 21, 2008

I first met Earl when I moved to GA from MI. As a member of the Marietta HOG Chapter I know first hand how generous Earl was and how loving and friendly he and his family are. Though I moved 5 years ago to Arizona, I still consider my Marietta Chapter as family. My sincere condolences to all of you in the HOG chapter and especially that of Earl's family.

Christine Boldt

October 21, 2008

Oh Uncle Earl and Aunt Sybil! I am so so sorry!!! And Peggy and Ginny! My love, sympathy and prayers are will you all! What a tragedy! I'm so sorry! And to Earl Jr's wife and sons, my sympathy and prayers are with you also! I'm so sorry! Love, Tina

Bobby and Janice Boone

October 21, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. May God Bless.

Jenny- Rider Services, Harley-Davidson Motor Company

October 21, 2008

My sincere condolences to Earl's family, friends and employees. May your cherished memories of Earl bring you consolation during this difficult time.

Ride on brother.

Jean Jessen

October 21, 2008

We knew Earl for so long--when he was still just wrenching in Cobb Co. Nice guy, smart--will be missed, but always in our memories. Blessing for peace and healing. Hammer and Majic

Maggie Mohler

October 21, 2008

My prayers and deepest sympathy to Earl's family. I know he will be missed.

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