Edward D. Marley

Born on July 30, 1936, Ed lived a full and honorable life rooted in family, hard work, and quiet strength. He proudly served in the United States Air Force for eight years and later built a career as a Refrigeration Engineer. In retirement he continued working tirelessly on his land, gardening, raising cattle, and checking off Linda’s honey-do-list. He was never one to sit still too long. Whether he was picking purple hull peas or tending to cattle, Ed did everything with care and diligence. 

He was a man of honor, integrity, and principle. Ed knew right from wrong and, with a respectful word, would always let you know which was which. His hug was the warmest, and his bluest eyes reflected a kindhearted, steady and deeply devoted soul, as pure as they come. 

Above all, Edward was a family man. Married to his sweetheart, Linda Beth Marley, for nearly 65 years. Their love story was one of true devotion. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for her. His most favorite story to tell was how he managed to get Linda Beth underneath the mistletoe at a Christmas party, and from that moment on, she was hooked. 

A father for over 55 years, his children were his pride. His daughter, Stacie, and son, Craig, meant the world to him. He beamed with pride when talking about them, always eager to share their accomplishments, their goals, and most of all, how much he loved and admired being their daddy. As a grandpa, or Pepa, for almost 25 years, he found a special kind of joy. Whether he was fishing with them to see who could hook the biggest bass, scolding them for hot-rodding on the four-wheelers, or jokingly calling them ugly in the way only he could get away with, there wasn’t anything he was more proud of than being their grandpa. Each of them held a unique bond with him, but all shared moments filled with laughter, teasing, and love. 

He is survived by his wife, Linda Beth, his son, Craig and daughter-in-law Melissa, his daughter Stacie and son-in-law Troy, his grandchildren Makayla, Austin, Madison, Riley, bonus grandsons Ryon & Dylan, even a bonus great-grandson, Karter. There were many others who filled his life with joy and love. 

He is preceded in death by his mother Mildred Painter, step-father Robert Painter, his father Glenn C. Marley, step-mother Gladys Marley, his sisters Barbara Jean Jones and husband Wesley and Glenda Scroggins. 

A graveside service will be held at Reilly Springs Cemetery on Thursday, July 3 at 10:00 AM. This date would have marked his and Linda Beth’s 65th wedding anniversary. It will now be a celebration not only of their marriage but of the man who led their family with strength, loyalty, and unwavering love.