Albert Grant Eaton

Albert grew up on a farm and attended Asbury United Methodist. Al, as he was known to his friends, was active in the youth group at Asbury UMC, where he met his lifelong love and future wife, Barbara Hervey. Al graduated with an undergraduate degree in education from Edinboro College and later earned a master’s degree from Ohio State University. Following his graduation from Edinboro, Al served in the U.S. Army in post-war France. Upon his honorable discharge, he headed home and married Barbara in 1957.

He took his first job in education as a teacher in Ashtabula City Schools and later served as the principal at three different elementary schools until 1971. While living in Ashtabula, he and Barbara also welcomed three daughters into their family. In the summer of 1971, the family moved to North Ridgeville, Ohio, where Al served as the principal of Prospect Elementary in Elyria from 1971 - 1992. Al retired in 1992 and enjoyed golfing, world travel, teaching a Bible study class for 25 years at Elyria UMC, and spending time with his family and friends. In 2019, Al moved to the Otterbein Community in Lebanon, Ohio to be closer to two of his daughters and their families. He jumped into life in his new home with his usual positive outlook and energy, made new friends, and joyfully greeted his first great grandchild in December of 2023.

Al was predeceased by his wife, Barbara, his parents, and brother, James Eaton. Al is survived by daughters Sarah Eaton and spouse Gary Stiefel, Alice Valley and spouse John Valley, and Dr. Elizabeth Eaton and spouse Dr. Michael Prayson. He is also survived by eight grandchildren and one great grandchild.

There will be visitation and a memorial service at the Otterbein main building at 12 p.m. Sunday August 18, in the Jones Room. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Edinboro College (now known as Pennwest Edinboro) at Edinborofoundation.org.