Thomas F. Earley

Thomas F. Earley, 74, of O'Neill, died peacefully at his home on Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024.

Memorial visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 17, 2025 at Biglin's Mortuary in O'Neill with a 7 p.m. parish rosary.

A celebration of life service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025 at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in O'Neill.

Memorials may be made to the O'Neill American Legion Baseball or St. Mary's Catholic High School football team in Tom's name or to the family for future designation.

Thomas F. Earley, a beloved pillar of the O'Neill community. Known for his unwavering dedication to family, friends and his hometown, Tom left an unforgettable mark on all who knew him.

Born on May 24, 1950, in O'Neill, Tom was the son of James and Mary Alice (Biglin) Earley.  A proud graduate of St. Mary's Catholic High School in 1969, Tom's passion for sports carried him to the University of Wyoming, where he played football for the Cowboys and earned a bachelor of science degree.

After graduating, Tom returned to O'Neill to work with his parents at Earley Oil Company before opening the iconic Tom's Madison Street Tavern, the go-to spot for good times and great memories. He later built a successful real estate career, starting at Waldo Realty and eventually founding Earley Real Estate. Tom wasn't just a realtor; he was O'Neill's unofficial welcoming committee—helping you find a home, signing you up for Rotary, introducing you to new friends and making sure your kids were ready to play tee-ball.

Tom was a true champion of O'Neill, dedicating his time and heart to the community's youth. He took over O'Neill's Little League baseball program in the '70s and helped launch the town's first little girls' softball program, instilling a love for the game in countless young athletes. Many will remember Tom as “Coach,” as his passion and dedication to sports extended from coaching girls' softball, junior high football and assisting as a coach's aide for the St. Mary's Catholic High School football program, where he was a regular in the crow's nest.

Tom's dedication to O'Neill went far beyond sports. He served on the park board, worked with the fire department and was deeply involved in numerous organizations, including the O'Neill Rotary Club, the Sons of the American Legion and the O'Neill Chamber of Commerce.  

Tom's heart and humility were unmatched. He was quick with a story, generous with his time and ever-present in his community. Tom was widely recognized for his outstanding contributions, from being inducted into the Irish Walk of Fame to receiving the Spirit of St. Mary's Award, the Ambassador of O'Neill Award and many others.

A devoted husband and father, Tom married Vicki Holz on Dec. 29, 1983. Together, they raised two daughters and his stepson. When he wasn't coaching or volunteering, Tom was busy making memories with his family. His greatest passion was being a dad, and he never missed a game, recital or milestone (even if the Cubs were playing). Of course, he'd have his trusty headset on to keep up with the score. It's rumored that Tom placed a heavenly wager on another Cubs' World Series win the moment he arrived at the pearly gates.

  Summers at the Niobrara River and Fort Randall were among Tom's greatest joys. He loved skiing, fishing and pulling the kids behind the boat at his parents' cabin. He was an avid hunter, a loyal fan of baseball and football and was known for his sturdy handshake, warm smile and unwavering commitment to helping others.

  Tom will forever be remembered as a cornerstone of O'Neill, a man whose life was dedicated to his community, his family and his friends.  He lived a life that truly embodied the spirit of O'Neill: selfless, kind and committed to making a difference.  His memory will remain an inspiration to all who had the privilege to know him.

Tom is survived by his wife of 40 years Vicki Earley; two daughters Brooke (Brenton) Lammers of Lincoln and Jacqueline Earley of Omaha; a stepson,Benjy (Stephanie) Musil of Carson City, NV; two grandsons Bowen and Kipton Lammers; a step-granddaughter Ayla McDonald; two sisters Cathy (Gordon) Givens of Lincoln and Barb (Daniel) Petersen of Omaha; as well as nieces, nephews and a community that will deeply miss his presence.

He was preceded in death by his parents James F. and Mary Alice (Biglin) Earley.