James Frederick "Fred" Eaton

1942 - 2024

James Frederick "Fred" Eaton

January 17, 1942 - October 18, 2024

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James Frederick "Fred" Eaton, 82, of Roanoke, VA, who left us peacefully on Friday, October 18, 2024, with his loving wife, Sandra Shupe Eaton, by his side.

Born on January 17, 1942, in Harrisonburg, VA, to James Edward (Jim) Eaton and Wilda Smith (Billie) Eaton, he was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend.

Fred was predeceased by his first wife, Ann Cline Eaton, in 2011, after 46 years of marriage; and brother, Daniel "Danny" Eaton of Norfolk, VA.

Surviving are his wife of 11 years, Sandra Shupe Eaton of Roanoke, VA; son, James Frederick (J. Fred) Eaton Jr. of Salem, VA; daughter, Jodi Eaton-Heins of Tampa, FL; daughter, Heidi Williams and husband, Philip, of Youngsville, NC; and stepson, Michael Atkins and wife, Teresa Barie, of Charlotte, NC.

Fred was also a proud grandfather to Kimberly, R.J., Dakota, Jasmine, Brian, Shane, and Ashley Eaton; Olivia and Julia Heins; Megan Argabright; and Taylor Williams; and great-grandfather to Bentley, Laura, Ellamae, Nevaeh, Troy, Isla, Raelynn, and Damon; and Rylei and Anastasia Argabright.

Fred was a graduate of Harrisonburg High School and Madison College. He retired from IBM after 29 years. His retirement years were spent as the sexton for Windsor Hills United Methodist Church, as well as running his successful window treatment business. You could always find Fred singing in the church choir, often singing solos, or making the church beautiful, especially with his Thanksgiving and Christmas decorations. For many years, he enjoyed singing in the Virginia Gentlemen chorus, the Roanoke Valley Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society. He also dedicated one week every summer to volunteering with the Appalachian Service Project, a mission close to his heart.

Fred's warmth, kindness, and humor touched the lives of many, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

The family would like to express a "Special Thanks" to Brandon Oaks Assisted Living and Memory Care.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at Windsor Hills United Methodist Church, with a reception immediately following in the fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Windsor Hills United Methodist Church, earmarked for the Appalachian Service Project, in his memory. Condolences may be shared with his family by visiting www.Oakeys.com.

Oakey's Funeral Service - South Chapel

Roanoke, VA (540) 989-3131