Edward "Eddy" L Gribbins

Edward L. “Eddy” Gribbins, 71, of Connersville, died early Wednesday morning, March 27, 2019, Reid Health in Richmond. Eddy was born in New Castle, October 26, 1947, to William L., Sr. and Juanita Six Gribbins. In 1965, he graduated from Connersville High School. He was a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War. Eddy retired from Visteon and its predecessors in 1997. He was an active member of the International Union of Electrical Workers, Local 919 where he had served as the union president, vice-president and steward. Eddy like to hunt, fish and listen to oldies on the radio. He was a member of the AMVETS, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Moose Lodge and Eagles Lodge where he was the former president. Eddy is survived by his wife, the former Connie S. Brown whom he married March 30, 1990; his step-children: Michael Shepler and his significant other, Rhonda Smith of Connersville; Jeremy Shepler of Daleville, Douglas Shepler and his significant other, Angel Meyer of Brookville; grandchildren: Kelsey Shepler, whom he helped raise; Chandler, Caleb and Bentley Shepler, Brooke Jones; great-grandchildren: Maddux Hornsby and Ezra Christian; his daughter: Tara Wildridge; grandchildren: Analissa, Rileigh and Chloe Wildridge; great-grandchildren: Avery and Nova Kuhn; nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Eddy was preceded in death by his brother: William “Bill” Gribbins, Jr.; and his cousin and best friend: John Trine. Private services will be conducted at the convenience of the family following cremation. Memorial contributions may be made to the Fayette County Animal Shelter, 1703 Michigan Avenue, Connersville, IN 47331 or to the Eagles Scholarship Fund, 800 Eastern Avenue, Connersville, IN 47331. Showalter Blackwell Long Funeral Home, Myers Chapel, Connersville, is in charge of the arrangements. For additional information and features, go to www.ShowalterBlackwellLong.com.