Jean Elizabeth Eller

It is with deep sorrow and love that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mother and grandmother, Jean Elizabeth Eller, who went home to be with the Lord in her Grassy Creek home on Sunday, March 23, 2025 at the age of 95. Born on September 5, 1929, in Bayview, Maryland, Jean was the cherished youngest of three children born to Harvey Dillinger and Helen Elizabeth Jones Dillinger.

Jean was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Bruce Allen Eller; her beloved son, Burl Eller; her parents, Harvey and Helen; her brother, Paul Dillinger; her sister, Phoebe Wilkey; and her dear in-laws, Lucy and Grant Eller. Her memory will be forever treasured by her loving daughter, Yvonne Stanley; her granddaughters, Katie Stapleford and her husband John, and Megan Garrett; her four adored great-grandchildren Carter Garrett and Taylor, Madi and Jack Stapleford; and her step-grandchildren.

Growing up in Cecil County, Maryland, Jean was the daughter of a teacher and farmer and experienced the rhythms of farm life. After graduating high school, Jean took a job at Union Hospital, where fate intervened, and she met the love of her life, Bruce. Together, they built a life in Delaware, raising their children before returning to their roots of farming on Bruce's family homestead.

Jean was the epitome of a devoted wife, a nurturing mother, a selfless caregiver, and a loyal friend to countless. Her gentle spirit shone brightly as she lovingly cared for her mother-in-law, Lucy.

An avid reader with a fondness for a good mystery, Jean found joy in the pages of countless books. Jean also had a love for puzzle books, which contributed to her remarkable vocabulary and her ability to spell just about anything. When she wasn't engrossed in a story, you could often find her in the heart of her home – the kitchen. There she enjoyed making delicious fudge, baking pies, cakes, and cookies that were enjoyed by all. Jean also had a knack for canning, and her breakfast table was never without an array of her delightful homemade jams, especially her rich elderberry.

Visits from her daughter and granddaughters were always a special occasion, often marked by spirited and suspenseful games of Canasta, where Jean's competitive spirit would playfully emerge. Jean possessed a remarkable wealth of knowledge and knew a little bit about everything.

Her love for animals was evident throughout her life, and she often took in and nurtured rescued creatures. Jean found immense pleasure in the simple joys of life and possessed a deep sense of gratitude and contentment.

Her family will deeply miss the comforting ritual of long after-dinner coffees filled with heartfelt conversations, the thrill of their challenging card games, and above all, the unwavering love and warmth that Jean so effortlessly shared with everyone around her. Her gentle presence and loving spirit will be profoundly missed but forever remembered.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at 2:00 pm at Pleasant Home Baptist Church by Rev. Tommy McClure. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.