Billy Eugene Eaton

Billy Eugene Eaton, age 82, passed away May 30, 2021 in Orange Park, Florida

He was born on September 2, 1938 in Greer, SC. His parents were Fred Luther Eaton and Irene Foster Eaton.

He was preceded in death by his oldest brother Fred Eaton, Jr. and has one surviving brother Jerry Eaton of Spring Hill, Florida.

Bill’s fondest memories were his adventures growing up in Polk County, NC with his brothers and his cousins and dear friend Ray Brown. He graduated from Green Creek High School near Mill Spring, NC and Landrum, SC. Bill was the Captain of the Basketball team. He was voted “Most Popular, Most Dependable and Best Looking,” his Senior year. He graduated at 17 and Grandpa Foster signed for Bill to join the Marine Corp. Lance Corporal Eaton did three years of duty, completing his tour in 1959.

Bill’s first wife the late Judy Ledford Eaton gave Bill three children: Candice Eaton Dyer, late husband Jimmy and two children Brandon and Liz. Two sons, Randy Eaton, wife Elvia and six children: Miranda, Sasha, London, Cody, Noah and Seth. Chris Eaton and his children: Corey, Dallas and Savannah.

Bill’s x- wife of 48 years, Patricia Price Eaton and her children: Pam, Kelly, and Tracy Joanna Duncan. He raised 6 children, and they gave him, 14 grandchildren and 16 Great Grandchildren.  A blended family, but he loved them all equally.

Bill spent most of his life in Shelby, NC raising his children and working for J&C Dyeing and also part time helping out his brother-in-law at Shelby Steel Products. He was a member of Buffalo Baptist church in Shelby and attended River Christian Church, Fleming Island, Fl.

His favorite past times were playing golf and fishing with his sons. He was passionate about the University of North Carolina Tarheels and proudly wore the “Carolina Blue” in Florida.

Bill always had a smile for everyone. He was a jokester, storyteller, witty and sarcastic. He loved his family and especially the children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was “Pops!” He always had candy in his pocket or a loose dollar or two for the kids.

In true Marine fashion, Bill was strong in spirit and fought a good fight.  He was surrounded by his loving family.

 A memorial service will be held Saturday, June 26, 2021 at 10:00am at River Christian Church: 5900 US-17, Fleming Island, FL 32003.