Brenda K. Eastburn, 80, of Sheldon passed away on Monday, March 3, 2025 at her home. She was born on January 2, 1945 in Danville, the daughter of Elmer and Clara (Cooksey) Long. She married Thomas J. Eastburn in Watseka on February 14, 1986 and he preceded her in passing on August 23, 2009.
She is survived by one son, Thomas H. Eastburn (Ginger Ade) of Otterbein, IN; two grandchildren, Tate (Betsy) Eastburn and Gabrielle “Gabby” Eastburn; five sisters, Barb Gosser of Pence, IN, Nancy (John) Neal of Chattanooga, TN, Winnie Roach of Wellington, Marsha (Don) Cropper of Armstrong, Sherrie (Steve) Leslie of Hoopeston; and she was the most loving Aunt to many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.
Brenda was preceded in passing by her parents; husband, Thomas; fiancé, William “Bill” McNeely; step mother, Clara Madison Long; three brothers, Herbert Long, James Long, and Ronald Long; and two nephews, Rodney Neal and Keith Long.
Mrs. Eastburn grew up and attended school in Hoopeston. After the passing of her mother in 1961, she raised her three younger siblings, Sue, Jim, and Ron. She worked for years at Howard Industries in Milford and later at Little Fuse in Watseka.
She married Tom Eastburn and moved to the family farm where she enjoyed gardening and reading. They enjoyed winters in Key West, FL and Friday night dinners at Karchi’s in Watseka. After Tom’s passing, she met William “Bill” McNeeley in 2014 where she embraced and shared the love and friendship of his children and siblings. They often gathered for family fun, playing games and enjoying snacks. Bill preceded her in passing in November 2022.
You could always expect a Christmas card or Birthday card from Brenda. She was the keeper of all family phone numbers and address and she will be greatly missed.
Visitation will be from 11:00-1:00 pm on Friday, March 7, 2025 at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. Funeral services will follow at 1:00 pm on Friday, also at the funeral home. Dr. John Neal, Pastor Steve Adsit, and Joe Williams will officiate. Burial will follow at Sheldon Cemetery in Sheldon.
Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice.
Please share a memory of Brenda at baierfuneralhome.com.
