J.L. Eaton

John Labon “J.L.” Eaton, age 91 of Dumas, MS joined his Heavenly Father and the love of his life, Betty Eaton on July 28, 2024 at his home after a brief illness. He was affectionately known as “Daddy Eaton” to his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was an avid Mississippi State Bulldog fan. He graduated with a Master’s Degree in Administrative Education from Mississippi State University in 1961. He retired from Potts Camp High School where he began teaching in 1977 and was principal from 1991 until 1995. He was Headmaster at Gray Academy in Ashland, MS for years. He influenced many young lives during his teaching career, cultivating knowledge from the East Coast, all the way to the West Coast; teaching in both Alaska and Florida. Ever the mathematician, he was tutoring his grandchildren well into his eighties. He was a faithful member of New Albany Church of Christ where he led Sunday School until his health declined. He was a strong conservative and could always be found in his recliner watching Fox News-happy to update all on current politics. He supported his community through The Lions club Organization as a Southeast Tippah club member for more than thirty years. He served our country in the United States Army as a Signal Corp meteorologist. He was honorably discharged as a SP5. He loved travelling and working in his garden. Most of all, he loved his Lord and his family. Survivors include two sons: Brad Eaton (Theresa) of Dumas, MS, Alan Eaton of Shelton, WA; Four grandchildren: Leslie Eaton Kirk (Dustin) of Dumas, MS, Candace Eaton Mauney (Manuel) of Dry Creek, MS, John David Eaton of Dry Creek, MS, Jeffrey Mann (Olivia) of Auburn, MS; Eight great grandchildren: Lane Mauney, Lyndi Holloway, Lawe Mauney, Patience Eaton, Nolan Mann, Jack Kirk, Izzy, Bella Eaton and Landry Kirk; A host of nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his wife of 23 years, Betty Eaton; Two sisters, Miriam Styers and Elizabeth Lang; One brother, William Eaton; One child, Rebecca Eaton; one special grandson, Alan Coffman; His parents: William Ellis Eaton and Laura Emily Linebarger Eaton. *In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or LeBonheur Children’s Hospital in Memphis, TN. Burial and graveside services will be at Tippah Memorial Gardens in Ripley, MS immediately following services with Military Honors. Pallbearers will be: Manuel Mauney, Dustin Kirk, John "David" Eaton, Lane Mauney, Jeffrey Mann, Johnny Eaton, Rickey Flake. Honorary Pallbearers are: Church Members, Elders and Deacons of New Albany Church of Christ, Lawe Mauney, Jack Kirk, Nolan Mann. Johnny Burkhart will be officiating.

J.L. Eaton

June 27, 1933 - July 28, 2024