Sally Eaton Prestwood

Sally Ann Eaton Prestwood, a dedicated educator and devoted friend, passed away on April 26, 2026, in Tyler, Texas. Born on July 4, 1936 in Denton County, Texas, Sally was a true "firecracker," bringing energy and enthusiasm to every aspect of her life.

Sally was very grateful that she had her start in life as an Edna Gladney baby. She was adopted as an infant by Harry and Tidy Louise Eaton. In recent conversations, Sally expressed how happy she was knowing that she would be reunited with Mother and Daddy. She cherished the white basket she came home in after her adoption - a treasured keepsake that later carried the children and grandchildren of friends. Always wanting to generously share reflected the values she carried throughout her life.

Sally's growing up years were spent in Corpus Christi, Texas. A proud graduate of Baylor University, Sally earned her Bachelor's Degree in Education in 1958 before pursuing and attaining her Master's Degree in Education at The University of Texas at Tyler. Her passion for learning and teaching led to an almost 40 year career as an educator teaching social studies and speech.

Sally's pride in being a Baylor graduate was evident in her love for all things green and gold. If she discovered that you also graduated from Baylor, you immediately became a friend for life! As a devoted disciple of Christ and long time member of First Baptist Church, she sang joyfully in the choir, participated actively in Sunday School, and volunteered energetically wherever help was needed. Every time the church doors were open, she was there. Her encouragement and love for the church staff and members was unwavering. For over two decades, even as she began to face health challenges, she remained committed to daily participation with Fit Steps for Life (now Kourage Health).

Sally's tireless work ethic would not let her slow down after retiring from teaching. Instead, she followed new paths of serving and being with people. She first worked at M. A. Simms and then The Potpourri House, working well into her eighties.

We want to express our gratitude to the wonderful women who took such tender care of Sally in her final weeks. LaNale, Shirley, Jeanette, Alice and Bessie, you are heaven sent angels! You didn't just minister to Sally, you ministered to us too.

Sally will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, her steadfast dedication to her friends, and, of course, her red hair!

A Celebration of Sally's Life will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. in the fourth floor chapel at First Baptist Church, 301 West Ferguson Street, Tyler, Texas, 75702, with a reception to follow at the home of Treacey and Greg Smith.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to First Baptist Church, or a charity of your choice.