Joseph Paul Earley Jr., 61, of Severna Park, died May 13 at University Hospital in Baltimore of complications of a liver transplant.

Born in Philadelphia, Pa., on Sept. 15, 1945, Mr. Earley moved to Baltimore at a young age. He also resided in Arnold and Severna Park and for 36 years in Glen Burnie before returning to Severna Park three years ago.

A 1963 graduate of Severna Park High School, he received a bachelor's degree from the University of Baltimore. After years in retail management, he most recently was employed by Harbour Spirits in Severna Park. He was a wine enthusiast and traveled extensively to wine growing regions.

Mr. Earley was an avid Baltimore sports fan who also enjoyed cycling, fishing and playing trivia games. He was a member of the Severna Park Lions Club and participated at Meals-on-Wheels.

Surviving are his wife, Nancy K. Earley whom he married April 14, 1967; two daughters, Allison Matthews of Severna Park and Megan Earley of Columbia; one sister, Mary Wilkins of Hideaway, Texas; one brother, Stephen Earley of Pawleys Island, S.C.; and one granddaughter.

Memorial visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Barranco and Sons Severna Park Funeral Home, 495 Ritchie Highway. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 7436 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd., Glen Burnie. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Hospice of the Chesapeake, 445 Defense Highway, Annapolis, MD 21401. Online condolences may be made to www.barrancofuneralhome.com

As published 5/15/2007 in The Capital Newspaper, Annapolis, MD