James Edward Eaton

On August 15th, our world lost a good one. Edd Eaton passed away after a brief battle with pneumonia, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Edd was many things in his life: a father, a grandfather, a husband, a coach, a mentor, a student, and most of all a friend.

Born and raised between Ada, Oklahoma and Salinas, California, Edd graduated from North Salinas High School and continued his education at Hartnell College, where he played on the golf team. Sports became not just a pastime, but a lifelong passion that defined much of who he was.

As an adult Edd excelled as a fast pitch softball player, competed as an amateur golfer and -true to form- never hid his loyalty as an unapologetic Los Angeles Dodgers fan.His love the game and for sports as a whole, carried over into one of his greatest callings: coaching.

In 1985, Edd shifted from playing to teaching, dedicating himself to helping young athletes learn, grow and succeed. He continued coaching for decades, right up until this last spring in the Sacramento area. Known for his direct approach, quick wit, and genuine nature, Edd had a remarkable ability to connect with athletes of all ages. He built strong relationships grounded in respect, honesty, and care--values that left lasting marks on the countless lives he touched.

While his coaching skills were remarkable, his greatest role was being a father. His sons Josh and Jeff were his ultimate pride. He consistently sacrificed and made difficult choices to do what he knew was best for them.Whether it was benching Josh for lack of effort on the field, or counseling Jeff through tough Kansas winters, Edd was a model of consistency and integrity -- a true example of how life should be lived.

Beyond the field and the course, Edd was a family man through and through. He is survived by his loving wife Marilyn; his sisters Gwen Murphy (husband Pat) and Melba Bailey; his sons Josh and Jeff Eaton (wife Sandra); his niece Shelley Trotter; his nephews Ben Murphy, Johnny Mc Carrol and Rickey Bailey; his granddaughters Savannah Hansen, Jaden Carrillo, Alexis Banda, and Cecilia Gutierrez and his grandsons James Carrillo, Darian and Joseph Gutierrez.

Those who knew Edd will remember his sharp humor, his love for competition, his devotion to those he cared about, and his unwavering authenticity. He was unapologetically himself -- unique, genuine, and full of life.

Today, as we celebrate his memory, we give thanks for the lessons he taught, the laughter he brought, and the love he gave so freely. His presence will be deeply missed, but his influence lives on in his family, his friends, and every player who was lucky enough to be coached by him.

Rest Easy Edd. You were truly one of a kind.

With a life well lived there will be two celebrations. The first will be on September 14th 12:00 - 3:00 pm at the Diamond K Club House 16 Richards Drive Roseville, CA 95678.

The Second will be held at The Elks Lodge Salinas 614 Airport Blvd Salinas, CA 93905 on Sept 27th 11:00 am - 2:00 pm

In Lieu of flowers Donations can be made to Lincoln High School Baseball Program in Edds name.