Lonnie D. Finley, known as “Papa” to those who loved him most, passed away on Monday, January 6th, 2025, at Northeast Georgia Medical Center following a brief illness at the age of 78.
Lonnie was born on January 9th, 1946, in Trigg County, Kentucky. He was preceded in death by his parents, John Lewis Finley and Mildred Hendricks Finley; four brothers, Mason, Randall, John Jr., and Sonny; and two sisters, Nell Lawrence and Mabel McNeil. He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Sharon Finley, of Gainesville; son, Kevin (Kristin) Finley, of Gainesville, beloved grandchildren, Benjamin and Caroline, of Gainesville; one brother, Pete Finley, of Wisconsin; and many nieces and nephews.
Lonnie began his career as an industrial engineer in western Kentucky. After moving to Gainesville, GA in 1976 he continued to work in the manufacturing industry. Soon thereafter, Lonnie transitioned to selling poultry processing equipment and supplies. In 1979 he started his own business, FRC Marketing Services, continuing to support and market to the poultry industry. Eventually transitioning the company to be known as FRC Environmental, a water and wastewater treatment equipment provider, Lonnie successfully owned and operated the business for more than 25 years. In retirement, he enjoyed spending time with his loving wife, watching Kentucky Wildcat basketball, and, most of all, being with family.
In respect of Lonnie’s wishes, formal funeral services will not be held. Rather, there will be two celebrations of life. The first will be held at home in Gainesville on Wednesday, January 15th, 2025, from 3-6 pm at Memorial Park Riverside Chapel and we ask our family and friends to join us in sharing laughter and memories.
The second celebration of life will be held at home in Kentucky for family and friends there to share good times and memories as well. Details will be provided at a later date.
Instead of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) in honor of our family’s close connection to the organization’s focus.
Memorial Park Riverside Chapel 989 Riverside Drive Gainesville, Georgia is in charge of arrangements
