Eileen Fuller

Eileen Fuller, 92, of Palestine, IL, passed away on January 17, 2024, at Robinson Rehab in Robinson, IL.

Born on April 18, 1931, at the Ikemire Clinic in Palestine, she would go on to graduate from Palestine High School before marrying Leroy Fuller on December 17, 1949. The couple embarked on a life of farming in Porterville for a few years, at which point Eileen began to embrace her role as a homemaker. With the establishment of Fuller Petroleum in 1972, she became the company's meticulous bookkeeper, never resting until the day's work was complete, sometimes working into the early hours of the morning. Her dedication to the family business was unwavering, as she managed the accounts until 2023.

Eileen was the epitome of love and generosity, placing the needs of her family above her own. She was the heart of every family gathering, where her specialty fried chicken and pork roast with noodles became the centerpieces of many cherished memories. Eileen's selflessness was evident in her insistence on serving others first, ensuring that everyone else's plate was full before she considered sitting down to eat. Her home was a hub of celebration, with every birthday and holiday an opportunity to gather her loved ones. Laughter and friendly competition filled the air as card games like Rummikub and Pinochle were played after meals. Travel was another joy for Eileen, as she accompanied her dear friend Reva Reynolds on numerous adventures as the grateful guest of the tour guide.

Back home, Eileen's hands were rarely idle. For a time, she was an avid crocheter and created blankets that her grandchildren will treasure for years to come. A collector of stories and moments, she also had a unique habit of collecting dimes and never discarded anything, especially that which held sentimental value. Her love for hummingbirds was indicative of her appreciation for the small and simple beauties of life.

A longtime member of the Palestine First Christian Church, her spirit found solace and strength in the fellowship of her faith community and in the countless sermons she heard echoing through the church's sanctuary. It could be said, however, that her life was, itself, a sermon. The sacrificial way she gave of herself helped us all to see more clearly the love of Jesus. We find comfort and assurance knowing that she is with her Savior and look forward to that day when, by the grace of God, we see her again.

She is survived by her husband of 74 years, Leroy Fuller; her sons, Jim & wife Cindy Fuller and Greg Fuller & fiancée Chloe Stephens; her grandchildren, Tammy & Dustin Kennedy, Lisa & Jeremy Beabout, and Brittney Fuller & Josh Griffin; her great-grandchildren, Wyatt Kennedy & fiancée Katelyn Wilber, Alysa Kennedy, Zoey Beabout, and Brody Beabout; as well as several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John & Della Faye (Lankston) Waldrop; her siblings, Warren Rex Waldrop, Edna Maxine McCammon, and Lois Pauline Fuller; her son, Jerry Duane Fuller; and her grandson, Anthony Fuller.

A time of visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 20th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Palestine. Funeral services will immediately follow and be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday at the funeral home, with Celebrant Curt Goodwine officiating. For those unable to attend, a live stream of the service will be available at www.goodwinefuneralhomes.com/live-stream/live-stream .

Burial will be in the Oak Grove Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the "Palestine First Christian Church" or to "ERBA" to assist with its Meals on Wheels program. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.