Eileen Margaret Doyle Filkins

Eileen was born in Rome, NY on August 30, 1936 to Rosemond and Miles Doyle. She was raised in a single parent yet multi-generational home which gave her a great understanding of humanity and a sense of independence. She graduated from Utica Free Academy in 1954 and Utica College of Syracuse University in 1958. Eileen adored college, as she often touted the importance of formal study and social growth. She continued her study of education at SUNY Potsdam and Elmira College to become a certified Elementary teacher in NYS and taught for over 30 years. Teaching was a passion as it allowed her to perform and convey some of her deep knowledge of life. Her classrooms where decorated with beautiful bulletin boards that celebrated seasons, holidays and achievements of her students. She exposed her students to cultures and languages from around the world all the while having them memorize the Preamble to the US Constitution. Her enthusiasm towards education has inspired many to go into teaching.

Eileen started her adventures with Jon in college. They then joined their lives together in marriage on May 14th 1960 at the Blessed Sacrament Church in Utica. They happily prioritized their lives focusing on their love, their children, their faith and their sense of community and adventure. She was active in Saint Patrick’s Church, Rotary (Paul Harris Award), AAUW, local library and an inductee into the Prattsburgh Hall of Fame.

Eileen is also predeceased by her mother Rosemond Doyle, her dear Aunt Eileen McHugo, and her loving and inspirational Nana, Laurretta Bergmiller Doyle and her loving cat Percy. She is survived by her four children Lahneen McCormick (Scott Hiester), Eric Filkins(Regina Hart), Mara Bell (Ray Benjamin), Amy Filkins (Tim Page); 7 grandchildren Vanessa, Kara, Kyle, Lindsay, Garrett, Wolfgang and Rowan; four great-grandchildren Trinity, Layla, Amelia, Grace; Plus one to arrive in January; Her sister Barrie Czerkies(Stanley); brother-in-law Tom Filkins(Janet); and several nieces, nephews and extended family.

Eileen will be remembered for her singing, crazy sense of humor, kindness, treasured friendships, "The Breakfast Club", costumes, world travels, casseroles, teaching, strength and inspiration as a woman and her extraordinary love of her husband, Jon. She will be greatly missed as a Mother, Nana, sister, aunt and friend.

Memorial services and funeral mass will be held in the spring. Arrangements are being handled by Bottoni Wood Funeral Home, Prattsburgh.

Online condolences can be shared at www.bottoni-wood.com