Doll Finley

Doll (Florence Anna) Finley, passed away Sunday, April 11, 2021. Born on August 26, 1928 in McKeesport, PA, she was the proud matriarch of her large family.

Doll met the love of her life, Tom, at a high school dance when they were both just 16 years old. They married April 15, 1950. First as wife, then mom then granny, taking care of others was her life’s great work, pursued with a fierce devotion and unwavering focus. The couple had seven children, 17 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and even one great-great-grandchild.

Doll jumped, albeit at times hesitantly, into adventure by Tom's side, taking her first plane ride to move to Milwaukee the day they married. This would become a trend in their lives as they moved multiple times for Tom’s work. She’d pack up her growing children and head out, often sight unseen, to a new home. She was so much braver than she recognized, and her faith in God, her husband, and her kids kept her going.

Doll and Tom lived all over the country before settling in Two Rivers in 1973, a community she deeply loved. She raised the last of her children, made lasting friendships, and even joined a bowling league for a time.

They often traveled further than they ever dreamed. They took cruises and explored Europe and Australia--Not bad for a girl from McKeesport! During retirement they found a second home in the Wisconsin Dells where again they formed lasting friendships and created an opportunity for family reunions and fun.

And when her kids started having babies of their own, she started a new role, as Granny. She made each of her grandchildren feel special and seen--no easy feat with so many. Simply settle into a chair next to her, and be prepared for a good story, a sly joke and dedicated attention. She ruled the roost, and she didn’t tolerate nonsense. No throwing a ball in the house! Dinner is promptly at 6 o’clock! And you’d better be wearing socks!

She was sharp as a tack, sassy, and always had an opinion—a trait that proved hereditary. Always dressed to leave the house, the shoes had to match the outfit and lipstick had to be on.

Doll loved deeply. She loved a good party, NCIS, and a chocolate chip cookie. From her post in the kitchen, she kept an eye on her friends and family across the country over Facebook. Getting a “like” from her was akin to a long distance hug.

She was a vibrant storyteller. Spend the day with her and you’d find yourself laughing anew even if you’d heard that one before.

She was also a woman of deep and abiding faith. In her final days, she was comforted by Bishop Rick Spencer and ready to join her Tom. She lived a big, beautiful life, and while she'd give all the credit to her husband, we know that she was our guiding light.

After Tom’s passing, their love endured. She felt so lucky he chose her, but we know how equally lucky he was to have her steadfast warmth and wit. Their love was the example, the north star for the family. We carry that with us now, and rest easier knowing they are together again.

She is survived by a large, loud hoard including her seven children: Tim (Ellen) Finley, Tom (Connie) Finley, Terry (JB) Finley, Patty (Dave) Grenell, Kathy Lemberger, Mary Lauten, and Becky (Matt) Fleming. She is also survived by 17 grandchildren: Chris Finley, Danny Finley, Patrick Finley, Mary Margaret Finley, Matthew Finley, Katie Finley, Laura Juárez, Jason Grenell, Kaitlin Brown, Anna Lemberger, John Finley, Emily Lauten, Maggie Lauten, Jamie Lauten, Megan Fleming, Jake Fleming, and Joey Fleming. She is survived by 12 great-grandchildren: Gabe McAlister, Tavi Juárez, Marisa Juárez, Anna Juárez, Stella Juárez, Cruz Juárez, Tucker Finley, Abigail Finley, Nathan Finley, Thomas Finley, Lua Grenell, and Elisia Grenell, and one great-great grandchild: Ezra Juárez.

Doll was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, Tom, her parents Margaret Beisler Krien and Adolf Herman Krien, and her sweet great-grandson Jaxson (Jaxy) Michael Brown. She will be laid to rest beside Tom on their 71st wedding anniversary.

Funeral services will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 15, 2021 at St. Peter the Fisherman Catholic Church, 3201 Mishicot Rd., Two Rivers. Officiating at the Mass of Christian Burial will be Father Dave Pleier. Burial will take place at Holy Cross Cemetery in Two Rivers after Mass.

The family will greet relatives and friends at the church on Thursday morning from 9:00 a.m. until the time of Mass at 9:30 a.m. Social distance guidelines will be followed and masks will be required.

A memorial to celebrate Doll's incredible legacy will be held at a later date, when all can gather safely. The family requests that in lieu of flowers any donations be made to St. Peter the Fisherman Catholic Church, 3201 Mishicot Road, Two Rivers, Wi 54241 or the Curran Spirituality Center, Attn: Rev. Wm G. O’Brien, E 416 County Road KB, Denmark, WI 54208.

Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.dejamartin.com.

Deja & Martin Funeral Chapels, 1506 18th St., Two Rivers, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.

The Finley family extends a special thank you to Pam Plansky and Laura Hayes-Stoeger for their unwavering friendship and care. We also thank Dr. Robert Gahl for the wonderful care and compassion given to Doll over the years. Your kindness and service is very much appreciated by our family.