James William Eaton, age 63, the son of Charles Edward and Thelma Florence (Jackson) Eaton-Cox, was born March 4, 1956, in Leon. He died on Aug. 24, 2019, at Mount Ayr Health Care.
Jim grew up in Decatur County, in the Leon and Grand River areas. He graduated from Kellerton High School. In 1992, Jim moved to Creston and enrolled into the Innovative Industries program. He started working part time with Fareway Stores on March 10, 1992. Here is where Jim picked up his nickname “Jim Bob.” He continued working there until his retirement on his 63rd birthday. Jim Bob loved new adventures and never turned down a “road trip.” He visited many different race tracks but was a loyal fan of the Adams County Speedway. He spent many Saturday nights he spent there in the stands or helping in the pits. He also enjoyed listening to country music. Jim Bob was very proud of his American Indian heritage.
Jim Bob had several friends but Larry Richards held a special place in Jim’s heart; Jim enjoyed being with him and driving him around where ever he needed to go. Wendy Bird was another special person in Jim’s life. She would always say, “heart to heart” and have Jim Bob look her in the eyes when she would talk to him. The country song they both enjoyed was “Heaven” by Kane Brown.
Survivors include an aunt Darlene Jackson of Mount Ayr and several cousins. Jim Bob left a special place in many people’s lives, especially in the ones he called family at Fareway.
Preceding him in death were his parents; brother Charles “Chuckie” Eaton; uncles: Junior Jackson and Kenneth Jackson; and aunt Shirley Jackson.
No services are scheduled at this time. Arrangements were made through the Slade – O’Donnell Funeral Home in Leon. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Creston Animal Rescue Effort to remember his love for cats. Cards can be mailed to Fareway 105, E. Adams St. Creston, Iowa 50801.