John William Finley Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

John William Finley was born in Los Angeles, CA on January 27, 1936 to Gladys (Griffin) and William E. Finley. He attended St. Paul the Apostle Elementary School and Loyola High School, graduating in the summer of 1954. John got the flying bug early on as a teenager, joined the California Air National Guard, and entered Pilot Training in 1956. In June of 1961 he was hired by Delta Airlines and spent his entire career with the airline until retiring in February 1996. When John was first based in New Orleans, Louisiana he met and married the love of his life, Edith (Liebl) in 1971. He also later joined the Louisiana Coonass Militia. John and Edith (Edie) celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary on December 28th, 2021. John was based in New Orleans, LA, then in Atlanta, GA, prior to moving to and retiring in Bonita Springs, FL where he resided until his death on May 21, 2022. His hobbies were old cars, going fishing, hunting with friends and flying experimental planes. He leaves behind his wife Edie, son Christian (Chris) Finley, and daughter-in-law Mary Crispin-Finley. We will miss our gentle husband and father. His flying days will never end! Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, 28290 Beaumont Road, Bonita Springs, FL 34134 on Saturday, June 4, 2022 at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s name may be made to St. Leo’s or the charity of one’s choice. To sign John’s guest register or to leave online condolences, please visit www.ShikanyFuneralHome.com. Arrangements are being handled by Shikany’s Bonita Funeral Home, Family Owned and Operated since 1978.

John William Finley

January 27, 1936 - May 21, 2022