Ronald Yates Early, 65, of Gloucester, died July 17, 2013 at Riverside Walter Reed Hospital.

Ronald was self-employed as a communication sales consultant. He was a master craftsman having built his own home.

He enjoyed going to the beach on family vacations, loved being on the water and outdoors. Ronald had a great sense of humor, always having a joke to share with friends. He was generous and a great friend to everyone, always ready to help with anything that needed to be done. Ronald loved dogs, especially Golden Retrievers. He always had a smile and an accepting way, giving all a sense of confidence and the feeling of his loving hand and kind heart, especially to his family.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy Y. Early.

He leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Darlene Early; daughter, Danielle Norris and husband Brad; son, Michael Early; granddaughter, Ella Yates Norris; his father, Milton Early; sister, Cheryl Walker and husband Bill, and a host of nieces and nephews.

A funeral service conducted by the Rev. Rita Staul was held at 3 p.m. Saturday, July 20, 2013, at Olive Branch United Methodist Church. Interment followed in the church cemetery. The family greeted friends prior to the service from 2-3 p.m. at the church.

In Ronald’s memory, his family would like contributions to be given to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, Va. 22312.

Arrangements by Hogg Funeral Home and Crematory, Gloucester Point.