William P. Eaton Jr.

William P (Bill) Eaton 82, Of Greenwood, South Carolina passed away peacefully on May 10, 2011 after a courageous battle with a debilitating disease. He was a pioneer in the infant television broadcasting industry beginning in 1954 as a salesman selling TV advertising when it was brand new. His career in the industry spanned over 40 years, growing to sales manager, TV Station General Manager, Operations Vice President for two different major Broadcasters, and ultimately to President and Owner of his own Radio Stations. Born in the small town of Ashland Kentucky, in the shadow of the great depression, he went from there to a BS Degree from the University of Kentucky, and served as a Commissioned Officer in the Air Force during the Korean conflict. His professional career took him from Charleston WV, to Plattsburgh NY, Atlanta GA, and New York City, before he settled in Greenwood for the final three decades of his life.

He would have said his most important accomplishments in life were those of Beloved Husband, Father and Grandfather. He was a friend to all he met, and beloved by his family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Bill had a lifelong love of old cars, as well as boating, and was an active member of First Baptist Church in Greenwood for many years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Kathleen Eaton of Bluefield VA, and his brother Lee Eaton of Sea Ranch Lakes FL. He is survived by his devoted wife Marilyn J Eaton, his Daughter Beth Eaton (Jim Cline), his son Bill Eaton (Wendy), his step daughter's Kathy Lehr (Paul) and Diane Cipolla (Phil) as well as four Grandchildren, and one Great Grandchild.

A short visitation will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, 5/13/2011 at Roswell Funeral Home with the Funeral Service starting at 11:30 AM, followed by a Graveside service at Green Lawn Cemetery. There will be an additional memorial Service on Saturday 5/14/2011 at First Baptist Church, Greenwood SC at 1:00 PM. Dr. Tony Hopkins will Officiate at both services.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Bill’s name to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston (www.choa.org) or a charity of your choice.