Mr. Clair Howard Eaton, Sr., age 86, of Lavonia, passed away Friday, February 21, 2020 at Stephens County Hospital.
Born October 4, 1933, in Albion, NY, he was the son of the late Clyde and Clair Cecile (Ruger) Eaton. A veteran of the United States Air Force, he served in the Korean War. He was a salesman with Bethlehem Steel Corporation, and worked diligently for the Second-Ponce de Leon Baptist Church as a deacon, treasurer, Royal Ambassador Counselor, and was a member of the EEE Men's Sunday School Class. After moving to Lavonia to be near family, he became an active member of the Lavonia First Baptist Church. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years: Romola Kent Eaton; brother: Charles H. Eaton; and sister: Betty O'Mara.
He is survived by his sons & daughters-in-law: Howard & Pam Eaton and Chad & Kim Eaton; daughter & son-in-law: Deidre & Wayne Cogdell; grandchildren: Kayla & Austin Grudda, Kierstin Cogdell & fiancé Jon, Keri & Mitch Standridge, Cameron Cogdell, and Cole Eaton; and great-grandchildren: Karson and Tucker Grudda.
The funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Friday, February 28, 2020 at the Lavonia First Baptist Church with Dr Larry Finger officiating. Burial will follow in the Lavonia City – Burgess Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Thursday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the Emmanuel College Golf Program, 181 Spring Street, Franklin Springs, GA 30639.
Strickland Funeral Home of Lavonia is in charge of the arrangements. On-line condolences may be sent to the family at www.stricklandfh.com.