Birth date: Oct 3, 1943 Death date: May 25, 2012
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Mr. Don L. Finley, age 68, died unexpectedly at his home in Mt. Carmel, TN Friday, May 25, 2012. Mr. Finley had been a resident of Mt. Carmel since 1974 and retired from his mechanical engineering work at Tennessee Eastman. He and his parents established Crestmore Mobile Home Park in Morristown which is now operated by his brother. Don had a unique approach to life and a brilliant mind. He enjoyed multiple hobbies and loved sharing them with others. His quiet presence and kind spirit will be missed. Survivors include his wife, Brenda; two children, Ellen and Mark; his granddaughter, Jessica and his younger sister and brother, Carolyn and Steve. Several nieces, nephews and cousins also survive. A casual gathering for Mr. Don L. Finley will be held at the Mt. Carmel City Park Pavilion on Willow Street, Friday, June 1, 2012 from 6:00-8:00 P.M. His son will fly the family over the Cumberland Mountains surrounding his hometown of Middlesboro, KY to scatter his ashes at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mr. Finley’s memory to community charities that serve the needy.Read Obituary
Don has been my friend and co-worker for 30 years. He helped me learn how to build and program microcomputers both at Eastman and at home for a hobby. He was one of the most unique and knowledgeable people I have ever known, and will be greatly missed. No matter what calamities were happening around the world, at our lunch meetings Don would always say, "Meanwhile, things are going well in Mt. Carmel !"
Steve Kasten
It was my pleasure to know Don through our work together at
Eastman. Don was quiet, soft spoken, and full of knowledge about many subjects. If you needed to know something about computers, Don was the person to ask. He built the first PC that I ever owned. Don will be missed. My condolences to his family.
Kyle Morrison
Crossville, TN
We remember Don well from our high school years and was glad to touch base with him via phone a couple of years ago to relive some of the memories. Don was well liked and highly respected by the MHS Class of 61. The entire family has our sympathy.
Pepper and Charlotte Medley
MHS Class of 61
Not only did I graduate with Don but we were neighbors when we were young. I have fond memories of playing with Don and Carolyn (Steve was too young). He had great parents. Your family is my prayers as you all go through this difficult time.
Don was a person that never cared to share his knowledge freely. He spoke of brewing to me when I was just getting started in the craft, and told me just how easy it could be (and how much he liked it to be easy). One time after Brent and I had brewed more than we had bottles for, Don helped by bring us plenty. It had been a while since I had seen Don, but I shall always remember his kindness. He shall be missed.
I was very sorry to hear the sad news of Don's passing. My prayers will be with the family during this difficult time.
Carolyn Evans Williams
MHS Class of 1961
I was terribly saddened to hear of Don's passing, I think it's only been two or three weeks since we were last discussing brewing, spelunking, machine design, flying and his latest, greatest gadget (a very large stir plate driven by rare earth magnets). I met Don several years ago through the local homebrew club and wasn't too sure what to think at first. The more we talked and the better I got to know him, the more I realized just how broad his interests were and ultimately how brilliant. He was one of those rare people that not only knows how to think outside the box, but is more than capable of saying "box - we don't need know stinking box?" Don will be truly missed.
We are sorry for your loss and are praying for you. Please let us know if we can serve you in any way. Calvary Baptist Church 225 Holy Lane Elizabethton, Tn 37643 423 542 5033 e/Mail office@calvaryonline.net Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me: Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. Psalm 23-4
Sorry to hear of your loss. Don would come to our house
to help my late husband, Bill Caffey, work on our computer. Don was so intelligent and so versatile. One time he even helped with a leaky kitchen sink after he fixed the computer!
He was a good friend and will be missed.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Vivian Caffey.
