Richard "Shane" Early

Shane passed away peacefully on December 5, 2025. He will always be remembered for his distinctive southern voice, his infectious laughter, his quick wit and his love and generosity towards those he loved. Shane grew up in Rich Square North Carolina under the loving care of his grandparents and beloved Aunt Josephine. Shane tended to keep things lively in that small town with all his childhood antics.
Shane married his loving wife, Merle, and moved to the Tidewater Virginia area where they had and raised their son, Franklin Shane, and their daughter, Wendy Jo. Shane and Merle owned and operated a successful safety equipment business for thirty-two plus years.
In younger years, Shane loved surf fishing with family and friends in Buxton, North Carolina where the family cottage still stands. Shane was an avid collector of vintage and antique items for many years. He enjoyed traveling extensively with his wife up until the year of his death.
Shane is predeceased by his mother Mary Louise Shearin, and his father, "JT" Early. Also, his brothers, Fred Shearin and Billy Early, and beloved granddaughter, Jennifer.
Shane is survived by his wife, Merle, his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers, Al Shearin and John Early, sister, Alice Leach, and cousin Leslie Brouillard, who is like a brother to him, and other beloved family and friends.
The family gives a special thanks to the Beechwood staff, at Lake Taylor Transitional Care Hospital for their loving and excellent care for Shane during his last days.
A Funeral service will be held at Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks Chapel, in Manteo, North Carolina, on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at 1:00 pm. A burial will follow at Manteo Cemetery.
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.