Dorothy M. Eaton

With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life so well lived, we share the passing of our beloved mom, grandma, and friend, Dorothy M. Eaton, who left us on Sunday, September 21, 2025 at the age of 91. She was born July 19, 1934, in Chicago, the daughter of Henry and Ethel (Salzman) Peterson. Dorothy’s life was a beautiful blend of faith, creativity, hard work, and devotion to those she loved most. She spent much of her career as an office manager for a CPA firm in Decatur, IL, and in retirement as a floating BOA for Edward Jones offices, where her strong work ethic, attention to detail, and friendly spirit were deeply valued. Outside of work, she expressed her creativity as a talented seamstress, creating countless projects—quilts, clothes, and handmade treasures that her family will always cherish. Dorothy also knew how to find joy in life. She had a passion for dancing and never missed a chance to move to the music. She loved to sing, sharing her beautiful voice in the church choir, and she enjoyed both league and tournament bowling, where she built friendships and memories that lasted a lifetime. Her faith was an important part of who she was. Over the years, she attended many different Christian churches and found community in Bible studies and small groups. She was also involved in book clubs, where she loved to read and discuss the book of the month. Her openness to new friendships and her willingness to walk alongside others in faith enriched the lives of many. As a mom and grandma, Dorothy poured her heart into her family. She loved cooking favorite meals from scratch and joined in on the holiday tradition of baking Christmas cookies. She always went along for the ride to all the grandkids school games and events. Dorothy will be remembered for her willingness to help others, her kindness, and the companionship she so freely offered to all. She will be deeply missed and forever loved. She is survived by her two sons, Paul (Heidi) Eaton of Hampshire, IL and David (Monique) Eaton of Fayetteville, Arkansas; seven grandchildren, Justin (Jackie) Eaton, Brenden (Brittany) Eaton, Jake (Alexa) Eaton, Kenzie (Winston) Beesinger, Austin (Alexa) Eaton, Kylie (Ryan) Smith, and Weston (Reilly) Eaton; and eight great grandchildren, Everhett and Everly Eaton, Adeline Eaton, Wells Beesinger, Aria Eaton, Taylor and Elena Smith, and Carmen Eaton. She is preceded in death by her sister Carol Athey of Moweaqua, IL, her parents, Henry and Ethel Peterson, and her ex-husband, Zeb Robert Eaton. A celebration of Dorothy’s life will be held at a later date.

Dorothy M. Eaton

July 19, 1934 - September 21, 2025