Eloise King

Eloise Eason King, age 86, a resident of Fort Walton Beach, passed away Wednesday, July 16, 2025, in DeFuniak Springs, Florida. She was born June 27, 1939, in Hacoda, Alabama to Jim Bil Eason and Orie Eason.

She married the love of her life, Wiley Junior King, on July 28, 1961, in her hometown, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Eloise dedicated her life to education, earning a degree in Education from Troy State University. For seventeen years, she inspired young minds as a teacher of 2nd and 3rd graders at Wright Elementary in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Her passion for teaching was matched only by her love for her family, which she prioritized above all else. 

In addition to her teaching career, Eloise was a talented entrepreneur, owning and operating a craft store in Fort Walton Beach, where she shared her creativity and passion for crafting with the community. She had a special talent for sewing and creating beautiful arrangements with dried flowers, which brought joy to her family and friends.

Eloise was also an avid genealogist, dedicating countless hours to researching her family history. She traced her lineage back to the 1700s and even traveled to Ireland with a dear friend to connect with her roots. Family reunions were a highlight of her life, where she brought everyone together to celebrate their shared heritage and create lasting memories.

A devoted member of Cinco Baptist Church in Fort Walton Beach, Eloise's faith was a guiding light in her life. She was known for her optimistic spirit, kindness, and the ability to make everyone feel welcome, she truly never met a stranger.

Eloise was preceded in death by her parents, Jim Bill Eason and Orie Eason; her sister, Sandra Burkett (James); niece, Jennifer Harford; and nephew, Jamie Burkett.

Eloise is survived by her loving husband, Wiley Junior King; two sons, Michael King (Teresa) of Fort Walton Beach and Steven King (Robin) of Defuniak Springs; three grandchildren, Melissa Kerekes, Jessica Howard, and Brooklyn Laird; and four great-grandchildren, Cade and Allie Kerekes, Ella and Ava Howard; and two siblings, Delores Roberts (Ray) and DeWane Eason; along with numerous nieces and nephews who will carry her memory in their hearts.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 26, 2025 at Chapel Hill Baptist Church, 3863 Alabama 54, Florala, Alabama beginning at 11:00 a.m. A time of visitation will be held one hour prior.  Committal will follow in the church cemetery.

Arrangements and services are under the direction of Davis-Watkins of DeFuniak Springs.