Darrell G. Eaton

CHARLESTON, IL – Darrell G. Eaton, age 84 of Charleston, passed away on Tuesday, March 13, 2012 at his Charleston Rehabilitation and Health Care Center home.  Services honoring and celebrating his life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 17, 2012 at Adams Funeral Chapel in Charleston with Pastor Mike Southards officiating.  Burial, with Military Rites by the Honor Guard of the Charleston VFW Paul McVey Post 1592 will follow in Roselawn Cemetery, Charleston.  Visitation for family and friends will be held Friday evening, March 16, 2012 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the funeral chapel with Masonic Services to be conducted by members and guests of Charleston Masonic Lodge #35 A.F. & A.M. at 8:00 p.m.  It is requested that in lieu of flowers, memorials in his honor be made to the Shriners Hospital for  Children.  Gifts may be left on the memorial table at the visitation or services or may be mailed to Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Drive, Charleston, IL 61920. 

Darrell was born January 13, 1928 in Charleston the only son of the late Wallace and Helen M. (Davis) Eaton.  He married Joanne Murray on August 27, 1950 and they have shared a loving marriage and devoted friendship for the past sixty-one years.   Darrell was a father to three sons, Jerry Eaton and Kevin Eaton, both of Charleston and Kirk Eaton, deceased.  He was a loving grandfather to Lindsay (Eaton) Howell and husband Travis of Mattoon and Kenadie Eaton of Mattoon.  He is also survived by two beautiful great-grandchildren, Jaxtyn Kirk Howell and Memphys Kell Howell; a brother-in-law, Robert Moody of Charleston; a niece Mickie Lawyer and husband Don of Charleston; and a nephew, Barry Moody and wife Peggy of Anderson, South Carolina.  In addition to his parents and a son, Darrell was preceded in death by a sister, Marilyn Moody and a nephew, Terry Moody. 

Darrell owned and operated the Eatonize Insurance Agency in Charleston for thirty-eight years.  During his tenure in the insurance industry, Darrell was the recipient of numerous awards by the Pekin Insurance Company.  Following his retirement from the insurance agency in 1989 he continued to work in his PDQ License and Title Service until 2007.  Better known as "Mr. Eatonize" by many, Darrell had a flair for fashion.  He created his own reputation for being a very "colorful" person, always wearing clothing extremely bright in color – yet always coordinated and fashionable. 

Darrell was a long-time and faithful member of the First Christian Church in Charleston and served God and his church family in various capacities.  He served as a Deacon and Trustee, as Chairman of the Board, and as an Elder for many years. 

He was a life member of the Charleston VFW Paul McVey Post 1592, the Marine Corp League and the Charleston Elks BPOE #623.  Darrell was also a devoted member of the Charleston Masonic Lodge #35 A.F. & A.M., Valley of Danville Scottish Rite, Shriners International, and both the Ansar Shrine and the Corn Belt Shrine Club.  He also carried membership with the Charleston Moose Club #1388 and Charleston Elks BPOE #623. 

Wherever and whenever there was a parade – there was Darrell!  With his mules hitched to the wagon, a rooster and yes – don't forget Clancy – Darrell logged many miles in parade routes.  He later participated in the parades with the Shriners. 

The Coles County Fair was an annual event at which Darrell always loved making an appearance.  His day would begin with breakfast at the Lions Club food stand, then an afternoon of harness racing, and he would conclude the day by attending whatever evening show was being held at the grandstand.   Darrell never missed his turn working in the Masons stand and one his most favorite moments was his yearly photo shoot with Miss Coles County. 

The formation of the Charleston Community Band found Darrell with his trombone in hand enjoying each practice and performance from its beginning.  As usual Darrell took things a step farther and he, along with four friends, formed a German Band and entertained at healthcare centers and church gatherings.  They were known as the "Hungry Five" in the hopes that their payment would be in the form of a free meal. 

Darrell was a United States Marine Corps Veteran and proudly served his country from 1946-1949.  He was stationed in Guam and also in China in 1947 which gave him the same status as a China Marine.  Darrell believed and lived the motto "Once a Marine – always a Marine."  He considered it to be an honor to serve numerous years with the Charleston VFW Honor Guard and served faithfully on the flag detail.  

Darrell was an extremely caring individual and for more than 50 years (1946-2007) donated blood to help others.  It will never be known just how many lives were touched or perhaps saved through his donation of 208 pints, which is equivalent to 26 gallons and believed to be a Coles County record at that time. 

Family was a priority in Darrell's life and he enjoyed their many family gatherings.  Because of his love for his family their needs always came first.  His granddaughters were the apple of his eye and truly held a special place in his heart.  His family dearly loved him in return – they will miss his presence in their lives but will be comforted by their many delightful memories. 

A warm and heartfelt thank you is extended to the staff and all employees of the Charleston Rehabilitation and Health Care Center for being such a caring extended family to Darrell and for the understanding care and support given not only to him but to his family as well.  All of you are very special. Click here to view Darrell's tribute video.