Eloise D. Depratter

Eloise DePratter, age 101, went home to be with the Lord on November 23, 2025, in St. Johns, Florida. She was born on November 6, 1924, in Nahunta, Georgia, and lived a long, faith-filled life marked by devotion, kindness, creativity, and an unwavering love for her family and her Savior.

Eloise was married to the love of her life, Eugene Edward DePratter, for 72 beautiful years until his passing in 2014. Their marriage was a shining example of faith, commitment, and quiet strength—an inspiration to all who knew them.

Eloise was the loving mother of two children, Bonnie Jean Sumner and Eddie Joe DePratter. She is preceded in death by her husband Eugene and daughter Bonnie. She was a proud grandmother to three granddaughters: Lisa Sumner Messersmith Weaver, Stacey Sumner Sanchez, Dawn DePratter McGovern. She was also blessed with seven great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her tremendous joy.

A lifelong woman of faith, Eloise poured her heart into serving others. She was deeply active in her church and was always ready with a warm meal, a handwritten note, or a comforting presence. Known for her incredible cooking, she became the keeper of countless cherished recipes—recipes she freely shared with anyone who asked.

Eloise had a natural gift for nurturing and creating beauty. She loved gardening, tending her flowers and plants with the same care she gave to the people in her life. She also enjoyed creating pottery, crafting pieces that reflected her gentle spirit and artistic eye. Her love for decorating made her home a warm, inviting place where family and friends always felt welcome. She was also an incredible seamstress, fashioning dresses that rivaled designers. As well as, a bridal consultant for a multitude of blushing brides.

Her generosity was one of her defining traits. Eloise faithfully made care packages for anyone who was sick, grieving, or in need, quietly delivering love and comfort in the form of homemade food, thoughtful treats, and heartfelt prayers. Her acts of kindness left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to receive them.

Eloise leaves behind a legacy of warmth, gentleness, creativity, and steadfast faith. Her life touched many, and her memory will be cherished forever.

“We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.” — 2 Corinthians 5:8

A visitation will be held at Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home, located at 11801 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223, on November 28, 2025, from 12:30 pm until service time at 1:30 pm. The burial will follow at Riverside Memorial Park, 7242 Normandy Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32205, on November 28, 2025, at 3:00 pm