Edward Francis Finch D.A.

The death of long-time Freeport teacher Edward F. Finch was announced on September 28, 2026. The late Dr. Finch, is widely known in the community for his activities with various historical organizations and his writings, including several novels.

His life was guided by his Faith and his favorite novel: “To Serve Them All My Days” by R. F. Delderfield.

Born in Taylorville, Illinois, on May 10, 1947, Edward was the son of the late George Henry and Lucille (Kelmel) Finch. In 1978 Edward married Catherine Miller-Jones. Mrs. Finch is well-known in Northwest Illinois education circles.

Edward is survived by his wife and three children: Sherry (Chad) Cluver of Watseka, Illinois; Remy (Chris) Garard, of Normal, Illinois; and James (Jamie) Finch of Freeport, as well as ten grandchildren: Hunter, Beatha, Jameson and Baylor Cluver; Kaelyn (Blake) Chapman [Archie—great grandson], Nathan and Ethan Garard; and Alex, Kallen and Logan Finch. His father, mother and an infant sister, Janice, preceded him in death.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Finch’s memory are encouraged to the Lincoln-Douglas Society, the Freeport Public Library Foundation or the Stephenson County Historical Society.

Visitation hours will be from 4-7 (rosary starting at 4:00) at Burke-Tubbs Funeral Home on Thursday October 1, 2026. The funeral mass will be held at St. Thomas Aquinas Church on Friday October 2, 2026 beginning at 10:30 am. Fr. Peter Snieg will officiate.