Springfield — Lyman G. "Gene" Eaton, 87, of Springfield, Illinois, formerly of Peoria, passed away Sunday, Dec. 1, 2024, at Arcadia Care in Auburn. He was born Dec. 31, 1936, in Du Quoin, the son of Lyman and Maxine Maple Eaton. He married Sharon Ann Heap in 1955 at his parents' home in Du Quoin. Gene was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Sharon, in 1981; his daughter, Cheryl Ann Bean, in 2023; and two brothers, Carl Dean and Thomas Orville Eaton.

Gene graduated from Du Quoin High School in 1955 and attended John A. Logan College in Carterville and Illinois Central College in Peoria. Gene was a gear technician for Caterpillar, retiring in 1990 after 31 years of service. He also was a resident of the Mary Bryant Home for the Blind and Visually Impaired in Springfield for several years where he was affectionately known as "grandpa" to the residents and staff.

He is survived by his son-in-law, Mark Bean, of Peoria Heights; one brother, Jack D. Eaton, of California;

two grandsons, Randy and Nathan Brooks; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Cremation rites will be accorded. A memorial service will be held Friday, Dec. 13, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at the Mary Bryant Home in Springfield, with Rev. Lindsey Young officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Mary Bryant Home for the Blind and Visually Impaired, 2960 Stanton St., Springfield, IL 62703.

Curry Funeral Home in Pawnee is serving the family of Gene Eaton. Online condolences may be expressed at www.curryfh.com.