Eileen Frances Derning Elias

The story of Eileen Elias is being written from her dining room table; a table that has hosted 37 years of gatherings for family and friends. Those who have sat with her at this special table know firsthand the love, laughter and friendship that she shared with everyone that entered her home. Eileen was born on April 12, 1942 and the Lord called her home on September 9, 2016 at the age of 74. Eileen was born in Chicago, IL by parents James and Ella Derning. She had three wonderful siblings, Sue Higgins, her sister, and Pat and Joe Derning, her brothers. Eileen had three children, Allison, Chad and Emily, and four very special grandchildren, Reed, Chad, Sara and Christian. She was a most special ‘meemaw’ to her grandchildren.

Eileen lived a simple life blessed with all that makes life special. She loved the Lord and trusted in Him unconditionally. She loved and cherished her three kids and guided them through all the adventures and challenges that childhood and adulthood had to offer. She taught them faith. She nurtured and cared for her grandchildren with absolute compassion and love. She leaves behind a fine legacy. Eileen was blessed with many amazing friends and a few so close to her the line between friend and family was indistinguishable. She loved and cherished her friends and they loved and cherished her. Eileen was a math teacher. For 50 years, she taught, supported and challenged her students. Over the last 35 years, Eileen worked at Richland Community College where she enriched the lives of thousands of students.

Eileen was proud to be an American and had a tender heart for veterans. She greatly appreciated all those who fought and sacrificed for her country. Eileen was an avid fan of college football. She loved the sights and sound of college football, especially if her beloved Arkansas Razorbacks were playing. On her last day on this earth, Eileen went to work and taught her students, she talked to her best friend, Peggy Worthington, and she spent time with her amazing daughter, Allison, son-in-law Mike, and her special granddaughter, Sara. She lived her life to the fullest until the moment she went home to the Lord. She will be missed dearly by her family and friends but her family is thankful for and celebrates her full and complete life. It was a life well lived. Her place with the Lord is assured.

Eileen was preceded in death by her sister, Sue Higgins, and her parents, James and Ella. Eileen is survived by her two brothers, Pat and Joe, her children, Allison, Emily and Chad, and her very special grandchildren, Reed, Chad, Sara and Christian. The family suggests that memorials may be made to Operation Once In a Lifetime, 221 W. Parker Road, Plano, TX 75023 or on line at www.operationonceinalifetime.com. This organization directly helps military families who are experiencing various challenges.