About

Eddie Finley, Sr., was born to Eugene and Ellen Finley on August 3, 1923. From an early age, he recognized the profound importance of education. As a child, he decided that a career relying on anything other than intellectual pursuits did not align with his aspirations. Mr. Finley graduated as the salutatorian from Oak Lawn High School in Waxahachie, Texas, in 1940. That fall, he enrolled at Paul Quinn College, majoring in mathematics and earning a Bachelor of Science degree in 1944. During his collegiate years, he also married Mary Frances Hazzard.

Following his graduation, Mr. Finley joined the United States Army and was stationed in London, England, during World War II. While serving, he undertook postgraduate coursework at Oxford University. After the war concluded, Mr. Finley returned to the United States and began his distinguished teaching career. He taught mathematics for one year in Italy ISD before joining Waxahachie ISD, where he served as a mathematics teacher for nineteen years. Demonstrating a lifelong commitment to learning, Mr. Finley pursued further education and received a Master of Education degree from Texas A&M Commerce in 1972. His education service extended beyond the classroom as he later became a principal at both the high school and middle school levels for Waxahachie ISD, a role he held for sixteen years.

Mr. Finley was devoted to his family. When not working, he cherished time with his wife, Mary, and their five children: Raymond, Eddie Jr., Edith, Minyon, and Deborah. Mr. Finley was also an accomplished entrepreneur, owning Finley’s Professional Services for several years, where he provided accounting and bookkeeping services to local businesses.

Eddie Finley, Sr., is remembered as a passionate advocate for the education of all children. His unwavering dedication and commitment to the field of education paved the way for excellence for thousands of students in Waxahachie. Waxahachie ISD remains deeply grateful for his lasting contributions.