Grace Esther Eaton

Grace Esther Eaton, born on May 2, 1930, in Savannah, Illinois, passed away peacefully on August 19, 2024, at age 94. A life marked by service, dedication, and unwavering love, Grace was a source of kindness and strength to all who knew her.

Grace was preceded in death by her parents, Phillip and Millicent Mae Smith, and her husband, Edward S. Eaton.

In 1952, Grace married the love of her life, Edward S. Eaton. Together, they built a family rooted in love and respect, raising seven children: Eileen Jones, Karen Burris, Sandy Curtis, Grace Ann (Carr) Hervey, Edward (Sue) Eaton Jr., Janice (Nate) Gardner, and Mary Kay Monson. Her family grew to include sixteen grandchildren and twenty-three great-grandchildren, all of whom were blessed by her warmth, wisdom, and generous spirit.

A devout Catholic, Grace’s faith was central to her life. She attended Mass every Sunday at Immaculate Conception Church. Her unwavering faith was a source of comfort to her and an example to her family and friends.

As a registered nurse, Grace dedicated over 40 years to nursing, a career that perfectly suited her caring, compassionate, and calm nature. Early in her career, before raising her family, Grace served as a pediatric nurse in Chicago, Illinois. Later in life, she spent sixteen years in the emergency department at Yuma Regional Medical Center, where her colleagues deeply respected her for her experience, calm demeanor, and keen knowledge. Her ability to bring peace and comfort in the most critical moments left a lasting impression on all who worked with her.

While raising her children, she was actively involved in their education. She served as PTA president, assisted the school nurse with immunization records, and provided clothing and meals for students at Fulton Elementary School in San Diego, CA. Outside of her professional life, Grace had a passion for sewing and quilting, crafting beautiful pieces that her family will treasure for generations. She was an active member of the Retired Military Officers Association, where she found camaraderie and joy in giving back to the community. Grace also treasured the time she spent volunteering in her grandchildren’s classrooms, where her kindness and generosity were felt by many young lives.

Those who knew Grace will remember her for her endless generosity—no one ever left her home empty-handed. She had a remarkable talent for making others feel valued and loved, often with a good joke or a warm smile. She was happiest when surrounded by her family, a model of generosity, humility, and unconditional love.

Her life was a testament to the power of love, the importance of family, and the impact of a generous heart. Grace Esther Eaton will be dearly missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

While her passing leaves a profound emptiness, her legacy will continue to inspire and strengthen those fortunate to know her.