Mary Jean (“MJ”) Eaton passed away peacefully at her home on the morning of May 5^th at the age of 88. MJ was born in Sharon, VT and lived there until she was 19 years old.  She graduated from South Royalton High School in 1951 where she was an outstanding basketball and softball player.  For many years, she held the high school girls’ basketball record for most points scored in a single game and for a single season.  She was also the lead Baton Twirler in the high school marching band.  While playing softball in the 8^th grade, MJ was spotted by her future husband, Herbert Eaton, who was immediately impressed by her athletic ability. They married in 1952 and lived in South Royalton, VT until they made the cross-country move to Sunnyvale, CA in 1965 with their two daughters and a third daughter due to arrive a few months later.

 MJ was not only a gifted athlete, but she was also an avid sports fan. For many years, she and Herb were season ticket holders for the Warriors, A’s, 49ers, and Sharks.  MJ not only enjoyed attending the games, but she loved sharing tickets with family and friends. Her 49er game tailgates became legend; even some of the players would occasionally stop by after the game to have a Ramos Fizz.   She was the consummate hostess and an excellent cook.  Travel was another one of MJ’s passions.  Over the course of her lifetime, she and Herb not only traveled extensively throughout the United States, but also to many destinations in Mexico, South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and the South Pacific. She was happiest with her family around her, so often vacations were planned to include her children and grandchildren.   MJ also had a great sense of humor that kept her family and friends laughing.  Her stories were epic; she was very engaging, expressive, and upbeat so people were naturally drawn to her.

 MJ is survived by her loving husband of 68 years, Herb; devoted children, Debby Loewen (KC) of Sunnyvale, Kim Black (Greg) of Plano, TX, and Kris Pruneau (Scott) of Gilbert, AZ; grandchildren Nick (Alexa) Schulz of Goodyear, AZ, Christopher Schulz of San Jose, Pamela Black of McKinney TX, James Black of Plano, TX, Jordan Pruneau of Gilbert, AZ, Justin Pruneau of Mesa, AZ and Taylor (Justin) Barber of Gilbert, AZ; and one future great-granddaughter Barber of Gilbert, AZ.  She is also survived by her brothers Ted Wilson (Marlene) of South Royalton, VT and John Wilson (Tuyet) of Alpharetta, GA; brother-in-law Cliff Eaton of South Royalton, VT, sister-in-law Katrina Sleeper (Bill) of South Royalton, VT; as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.  All of us will deeply miss her fierce loyalty, generous heart and boundless love.

 Following her wishes, the family held a private Celebration of Life on Sunday, May 16^th at Los Altos Golf and Country Club in Los Altos.