James Matthew Finley's Obituary
ames Matthew Finley, son of Gerald Wayne and Mary Elizabeth “Betsy” Hubbs Finley, was born November 2, 1986, in Jacksonville, Florida. He departed this life Saturday, May 31, 2008, from injuries received in a roadside bombing in Jalalabad, Afghanistan, while serving in the U. S. Army, at the age of twenty-one years, six months, and twenty-nine days. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Bill and Bobbye Hubbs. James is survived by his parents, Wayne and Betsy Finley, of Lebanon, Missouri; two brothers, John Michael and Josh Finley, and two sisters, Jennifer and Jamie Finley, all of Lebanon, Missouri; his paternal grandparents, Gerald and Fayon Finley, of Jonesboro, Arkansas; a number of aunts, uncles, and cousins; as well as a host of other relatives and many friends. He lived most of his life in the Lebanon community. He attended Maplecrest Elementary School and was graduated from Lebanon High School with the Class of 2005. While in high school, he was a member of the football and wrestling teams. Since February 8, 2006, he served his country faithfully in the United States Army and had earned the rank of Specialist Four. He had been stationed in Germany and served the last several months in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. James made his profession of faith in Christ early in his life and was a member of Heritage Baptist Temple in Lebanon. He was a very tender hearted, intelligent young man, who loved life and lived each moment to the fullest. He liked all kinds of sports and greatly enjoyed following his favorite teams. He possessed a wonderful sense of humor and was comfortable talking with anyone he met. James was a loving son, brother, grandson, nephew, and cousin, and was a very caring friend. We salute his patriotic spirit, his willingness to serve his country, and his love of family. We remember him fondly and treasure the memories he made for his family and friends. Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Monday, June 9, 2008, in the Heritage Baptist Temple, Lebanon. Burial will be in Veterans' Park in Mt. Rose Memorial Park. Visitation will be held Sunday evening from 5 - 7:00 p.m. under the direction of Holman-Howe Funeral Home of Lebanon, Missouri. A Memorial has been established and contributions may be made through the funeral home. Return to top
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