Harold J. Finley, a dedicated and esteemed educator who served as assistant principal at Niles Community Schools for 21 years. Harold passed away on November 2, 2024, in his hometown of McDonough, Georgia. Born on January 18, 1926, Harold was a man who devoted his life to shaping the minds and futures of countless students.
Harold graduated from Niles High School in 1944, received a bachelor’s degree in 1971 from Bethel College and obtained a master’s degree from Indiana University in 1977. He cherished attending college with his son Darwin.
In his role as assistant principal, he exemplified wisdom, guidance, and compassion in leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew him.
Harold participated in the following sports in Niles Community Schools; football, Midget Junior and Senior League football and basketball, as well as excelling as an Eagle Scout in the Scouts BSA Program.
Harold proudly served in the United States Navy from 1944 to 1947.
As an illustrious community volunteer, Harold served on the following boards: YMCA, Optimus, Big Brothers, United Way, Lakeland Hospital, Lakeland Foundation, Friends of Silverbrook, Niles Senior Center and Gatewood Foundation. He served as Director of Neighborhood Education and served as Treasurer for Mt. Calvary Church, for many years.
Harold joined Mt. Calvary Baptist Church in Niles Michigan, where he was baptized and served as Treasurer.
He is survived by his loving spouse, Crocket Finley, and his children Gayle Kellogg (Ricky), Vernon Finley (Yvonne), and Darwin Finley (Maxine), his grandchildren, Darwin Steven Finley II, Tonja Killingham, Corey Finley, Jennifer Ross, Carey Finley, Adia Finley, and great-grandchildren, sister, Barbara Robertson and a host of family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents Harold and Martha Finley and his first wife, Geraldine Finley, whom he dearly loved.
In honor of his life and legacy, a public visitation will be held at Mount Calvary Baptist Church on November 15, 2024, starting at 11:00 am. This will be followed by a funeral service at the same location at 12:00 pm. Family visitation will take place at 10:30 am.
Harold will be laid to rest at the burial site located at Silverbrook Cemetery, 1400 E Main Street, Niles, MI 49120, following a service that honors his contributions to his community and his dedication to education.
Memories of Harold may be shared with his family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Niles.
As we prepare to bid farewell to Harold, let us remember his unwavering commitment to nurturing young minds and his profound impact on all those he touched. May his memory continue to inspire generations to come.