Virginia (Dreibelbis) Eaton

Virginia Eaton, 98, passed away at home on Tuesday, August 29, 2023.

Virginia was born on November 26, 1924 in South Bend to Lee & Blanch Dreibelbis. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, William Joseph, SR, their daughter, Sheila and son, William Joseph, JR; and sisters, Lorain and Nadeen. Virginia is survived by her children, Bryan, Gary, Paisley, and Scott; son-in-law, Owen Holder and daughter-in-law Ellen; a sister, Anadell; as well as numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren

Virginia graduated from South Bend Central High School and married her love and husband, Joe before moving to New York. She also lived in California and Colorado.

Virginia was an accomplished artist and oil painter, with paintings hanging internationally. She loved animals including her dogs and raising birds. She enjoyed doing crafts and sewing for her five children.

Mom was an example of survival and determination, beating cancer and 2 brain surgeries while never losing her amazing sense of humor. One time she told a doctor the only surgery she had not had was prostate surgery. This humor and caring nature found her making unlikely friends and at times becoming the surrogate mom for those in need. She genially taught us love, kindness and caring by her daily life, her memory will live on thru her actions in life. She will be missed.

A private service and burial have taken place in St. Joseph Valley Memorial Park. St. Joseph Funeral Home assisted. Condolences to the family may be made at www.sjfh.net

Posted online on September 25, 2023

Published in South Bend Tribune

09/25/2023 EJS