Eileen Wakefield

Eileen Wakefield, 98, of Columbus, IN, passed away Sunday, November 16, 2025 at Homeview Health and Rehabilitation Center in Franklin, IN. She was born on September 13, 1927 in Columbus, IN to Glenn Thomas Hammond and Iola Maude Janeway Hammond. Eileen was married to Clifford R. Wakefield at the Old United Methodist Church in Elizabethtown, IN by the Rev. Harold Gray on June 4, 1955.

A proud graduate of Scipio High School in 1945, Eileen's thirst for knowledge and self-improvement led her to further her education at Indiana Business College. Her academic achievements laid a strong foundation for her professional journey. Eileen's work ethic and dedication were evident throughout her career, which included valued positions at Union Starch and Refining Company and culminated in a well-deserved retirement from Bob Barringer Insurance Agency.

Eileen's commitment to her community was unwavering. She was a devoted member of Asbury United Methodist Church, where she actively participated in the Women's Circle, embodying the spirit of service and fellowship. Her involvement extended beyond the church walls as she contributed her time and energy to the Homemakers Club and the Senior Visitors Center of Columbus.

Eileen found solace in music, which was both a source of inspiration and a companion throughout her life. A voracious reader, she traveled through the pages of countless books, each story adding to the tapestry of her imagination. Eileen's hands were rarely still, as she expressed her creativity through the delicate art of needlework, crafting pieces that reflected her meticulous attention to detail and her love for beauty.

Traveling was one of Eileen's greatest joys. She embraced the opportunity to explore new places, meet new people, and experience the vastness of the world.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, November 21, 2025 at the Jewell-Rittman Family Funeral Home with Rev. Bob Lay officiating. Calling hours will be from 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service on Friday. Eileen will be laid to rest beside her husband Clifford at Garland Brook Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Homeview Health and Rehabilitation Center in Franklin, IN through the funeral home.

Survivors include her sons, Glenn T. (Shelly) Wakefield and David R. Wakefield both of Columbus, IN., Kevin L. (Dena) Wakefield of Tucson, AZ; sister, Catherine Norma Hammond Barringer; grandchildren, Travis, Jennifer, Jason, Kristin, Ashley, Jeremy, Donavon and Danielle; great-grandchildren, Sierra, Morgan, Devon, Desierae, Noah, Jayden, Jaxon, Michael, Joey, Ethan, Sophie and Leo; great-great-grandchildren, Maelee June, Hailey and Madison.

Eileen was preceded in death by her parents, Glenn and Iola Hammond; husband, Clifford R. Wakefield; brother, Richard Lee Hammond and daughter-in-law, Marilyn Wakefield.