Barbara J. Eaton

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Barbara J. Eaton, age 72, of Bear, DE, on Friday, June 13, 2025.

Born in Elkton, MD on August 20, 1952, she was a daughter to Lillian B. (Greenplate) Seward and the late George M. Seward. Barbara was a graduate of Newark High School, class of 1970. She received her Nursing Certification from the Nursing School of Wilmington in 1972, and began her career as a nurse at Wilmington General Hospital. In addition, Barbara received her BS in Nursing in 2001, while working full-time. During her career she was a floor nurse, as well as a post op nurse at Wilmington General. Barbara moved to the Dental Clinic for several years, and finally to the Performance Improvement Department. She dedicated 43 years of her life to Wilmington General and Christiana Care, retiring in 2016.

Barbara married George W. Eaton, Jr. in 1973, and they celebrated 50 years of marriage shortly before George's passing. Their relationship was built on love, understanding, and patience.

Barbara enjoyed gardening, going to the beach, and traveling. She was always up for a glass of wine, a good chat or a good book. Barbara was an expert at planning trips, and every new destination of travel brought her joy. She wanted to see all the sites, and enjoy unique experiences. Barbara loved family trips to Disney World, and as the family grew with grandchildren, the trips became extra special. More than anything, she loved spending time with her family. From relaxing dinners at home, to adventures with the kids, she was always there.

Barbara was a caring and selfless person, who always put the needs of others before her own. She was understanding and free of judgement, with immeasurable patience- unless she didn't like the view from the hotel room! She had a great sense of humor and wasn't afraid to share her thoughts.

In addition to her father, Barbara was preceded in death by husband, George William Eaton, Jr.; sister, LuAnn Seward Smith; and son, Stephen A. Eaton. In addition to her mother, she is survived by her cherished daughter, Kristen Grabowski and son-in-law, Evan, whom she loved like her own; devoted son, George W. Eaton III; siblings, Lynn Grier (Frank) and Mike Seward; grandchildren, Sadie Funderburg (Justin), Stephen Eaton, and Marissa Eaton; sidekicks, Karoline Grabowski, and Evan Grabowski; great-grandchild, Lilly Funderburg; and her inseparable canine companion, Holly.