Derl L. Easley, of Tullahoma, Tennessee,  passed this life on Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2015, at his daughter's home at the age of 84. Mr. Easley was born on Aug. 22, 1931, to the late Cody and Irma Arnold Easley in Olney, Illinois.

Growing up, Derl was an active member of the rifle club, camera club and high school band. He was part owner of a racecar that instilled in him a love for me-chanics and fast-moving anything; cars, boats or planes. After high school, Mr. Easley joined the United States Air Force where he was stationed in Alaska, and completed jet engine school. He then accepted a job at AEDC where he loved being a part of the testing of planes, jets and rockets.

He was always proud of his participation in the space program, as the satellites they tested made it possible for the ones we have today to supply phone and TV service. Mr. Easley primarily worked in ETF and went on to retire from AEDC after 37 years. Derl shared his love of hunting, fishing, boating and photography with his family, and they spent countless weekends at the lake, swimming, fishing, camping and "just living." Every year he had to have a new project. He loved to build and rebuild things, and could often be found at his favorite place, Lowe's. Whenever the song "It's a Wonderful World" would play, he couldn't help but sing along. He is so very loved by so many people, not a day will go by where he is not thought of and all the kindness that he gave.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Easley was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 51 years, Pauline Isaac Easley; and one son, Rex Edward White.

He is survived by one son, Claude Easley, of Murfreesboro and his ex-wife Sherrie Watson Easley; one daughter, Jayne Easley Craddock and her husband Andy, of Tullahoma; one daughter-in-law Susie D. Elliot and her current husband Gerald Elliot; nine grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

The family would like to issue special thanks to Derl's Hospice Compassus team.  With suspenders on, tape measure and blueprint in hand, it is time to let him go and build something in the promised land.

Services in the chapel of the Kilgore Funeral Home with Rev. Doug Hankins officiating. Burial in Rose Hill Memorial Gardens.

Published in Tullahoma (TN)  News -  August 28, 2015