Wayne Earley

Wayne Michael “Pop” Earley, 77, of Celebration, FL, passed away on August 9, 2026. He was born in Gardner, MA, on September 29, 1948, to Richard and Marilyn (Stockwell) Earley.

Wayne graduated from Athol High School (Class of ‘66) and received a Bachelor of Science in Management from Lesley College. He served in the United States Army as a Battle Intelligence Analyst for Headquarters Task Force South, with his primary area of responsibility being in Binh Thuan Province. Wayne received the Army Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service in the Republic of Vietnam during the period of September 1969 through October 1970.

After serving his country, Wayne worked in Logistics Repair Operations for Digital Equipment Corporation, Compaq Computers, Agilent Technologies, Nortel Networks, and Juniper Networks.

Wayne was a member of the Athol Boosters Club, Chuck Stone Little League and officiated multiple sports throughout Western Massachusetts. He had a passion for spending time with his family, watching sports, and enjoying a good meal with family and friends.

Wayne married Debbie Earley on August 22, 2008. He is survived by his wife, Debbie Earley; sons Benjamin Earley (partner Desaree Amado), Jason Vaillancourt (wife Alyssa), Mark Gallotto (wife Chelsea), Nick Gallotto (wife Michelle), and Eric Gallotto; grandchildren Drea Earley, Brooklyn, Kennedy, and Giana Vaillancourt, and Oliver, Riley, Leo, and Adrian Gallotto.

He is also survived by his brother, Jake Earley (wife Rose), and was predeceased by his sister, Maxine (Watson) Earley, and her husband, Gary Watson.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. A Celebration of Life will be held at the American Legion in Athol, MA on September 26, 2026 at 12pm.