Hershell Eaton

Hershell Edward Eaton (December 27, 1951 February 26, 2024) passed away at his home in Barnes, KS, comfortably and at peace. Hershell was born in LaFayette, Georgia, to Billie and Pauline (neé Bowman) Eaton and was raised in Houston, Texas, with his siblings, JD, Sheila, Deborah, Tony, and Randy. In adulthood, Hershell resided in Ider, Alabama, Chickamauga, Georgia, San Jose, California, and Reno, Nevada, before retiring to the State of Kansas, and settling in Barnes.

Hershell has been described as “a man’s man”, an admired and attentive father, a skilled craftsman, a diligent and hard worker, a talented cook who was well known for ensuring everyone had a full belly and planning the next night’s dinner before starting the current day’s meal. He was a gifted and prolific gardener, despite what he’d tell you. He cared for creatures of all sizes, including his cats and his constant companion, a loyal and very vocal canine, Mini. Hershell was a gentleman - truly a gentle man. Regarded as a man who wasn’t one to waste or mince words, when Hershell spoke, it was with a quick wit and contagious sense of humor or to give “just a word of advice” where he imparted his wisdom and lessons from life. There are very few who had the privilege of meeting Hershell that were not truly touched by him and his generosity, kindness, and compassion.

Hershell is preceded in death by his parents, Billie and Pauline Eaton, and his sister, Deborah Garner. He is survived by his children, Jennifer Eaton and her children, Tiffany Eaton, Tristan Galloway, and Drake Kelley, as well as their children, Justin, Annaleia, and Tatum Galloway, Jayden Wagner and Harlinn Bates; his son, Anthony Eaton, his wife Danielle, and his daughters, Kayla and Gwen Eaton; his son, Wes, his girlfriend,, Lael Pickel, and Hershell’s dog, Miss Mini; his siblings, JD Eaton, Sheila Demars, Randy Eaton, and Tony Eaton, their spouses, their children, and grandchildren; his cherished loved ones, including but not limited to, his lifelong love and partner, Susie Deans; Susie’s daughter, Shirley and Shirley’s husband, Gabe Larkins, their children, Maple and Waylan Larkins; beloved friends, Mark and Dawn Abergheimer; among countless other friends, extended relatives, and community members.

Washington County News • Mar. 7, 2024