James Eddie Eaton's Obituary
James Eddie Eaton, age 88, of DuQuoin, passed away on Friday, April 4, 2025, at 1:23 a.m., in his home.
James was born on December 9, 1936, in Carbondale, IL, a son to Exie and Dorothy Bernice (Barnett) Eaton. On November 21, 1954, he married Shirley M. Ragsdale in the Desoto Methodist Church, Desoto, IL. She preceded him in death on August 1, 2015. James honorably served his country, as a Gunners mate for the United States Navy during the Korean War, serving on the Essex aircraft carrier. For over twenty years James worked as an underground coal miner for the Peabody - River King Mine, Freeburg, IL. He was a member of the DuQuoin American Legion Post #647 where he enjoyed socializing, telling stories about the military and his days in the mine. James loved family cook outs, and spending time with his family, especially with his grandchildren. He was always ready to lend a hand, or mow a yard to friends and neighbors. James will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Survivors include his five sons, James David Eaton, Donald Laverne Eaton, Robert Dean Eaton, Michael Dale Eaton, and Daniel Wade (Kesha) Eaton all of DuQuoin, IL; one sister, Dorris Turner of Arizona; one sister-in-law, Pamela Eaton of DeSoto, IL; thirteen grandchildren, Angela (Brian) Kling, Jamie (Steven) Keller, Michael (Samantha) Eaton, Bryant (Ariel) Eaton, Britni (Ryan) Pritchett, Micole Eaton, Mark (Taylor) Eaton, Trevor McRoy (Simon) Eaton, Ashlie (Mark) Eaton, Michelle (Brad) Eaton, Trinton Eaton, Justin Eaton, and Kirstn Eaton; thirty-one great-grandchildren, Rhiannon, Brian II, Kylee, Haliegh, Katesyn, Mealeigh, Ellee, Mia, Michale Lee Jr., Monica, Travis, Mason, Gabriella, Bradly, Levi, Braiden, Sophia, Paisley, Bentley, Rowan, Braxton, Dawson, Camden, Taygun, Braxson, Kayson, Adriaunna, Chase, Madysin, Avery, and Izabella; five great great-grandchildren, Alexia, Madison, Baylor, Braylen, and Brynn; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley Eaton; parents; grandson, Mathew Nathan Eaton; sister, Dianna Eaton; brother, Ronald Eaton; sister and brother-in-law, Dolores (Howard) Hegg; daughter-in-law, Melody Saunders-Eaton; and brother-in-law, Gerald Turner.
Memorial donations may be made to the family for the celebration of life that will be held at a later date.
Pyatt Funeral Home, DuQuoin, IL, has been entrusted with arrangements.
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