Our Beloved Linda Gail Hurt Eakins of Willard, NC, stepped into Glory early Tuesday morning of May 4, 2021. She now resides in the mansion that Jesus promised unto her.

Linda was born in New Hanover County, July 26, 1952 to the late Nolan Dale Hurt and Virginia Gurganious Hurt of Watha, NC. As well as her parents, Linda was preceded in death by her brother, Nolan Dale Hurt, Jr.

Linda is survived by her husband of 50 years, Philip G. Eakins, Jr., Daughters; Eva Eakins Leitch (Scott), Philis Gail Galloway, Son; Philip Gardner Eakins, III (Laura). Grandchildren; Virginia Bailey King (Preston), Linda Bridgette Leitch, Philip James Galloway, and Kelsey Gail Galloway, Brother; Glenn Alan Hurt, and Brother in law, Patrick Vince Eakins.  Linda also leaves to cherish her memory, nieces, a nephew, many cousins and family members and friends.

Also remembered is her faithful friend Helen Meadows that Linda considered "her sister", as well as being her confidant, care-giver and "driver" when needed.

As the Pastor's wife, Linda was a co-laborer and faithful member of Corinth Baptist Church. She loved the church family with all her heart and they returned that love to her. Even in her sickness, Linda continued to support and provide for the children's ministries of the church. It is without doubt that she loved her God, her Savior Jesus Christ, her husband, family and her friends.

As well as being the essence of the Proverbs 31 woman, Linda was known far and wide for her genuine goodness and love for others. She had great strength of Faith and Character. Linda "lived –out" her faith and mission. She led her family, her pupils, her peers and others by her own selfless example.

After retiring as an insurance agent, Linda returned to complete her education. She obtained her degree in special education from East Carolina University and graduated, "Magna Cum Laude". Linda taught in the Duplin County School System and after a second retirement, taught at Penderlea Christian Academy. Linda was respected and admired as well as loved by both her students and fellow educators.

During the two year battle with AML Leukemia, Linda fought with dignity, strength, grace and great faith.

During the process, she used the countless encounters with others as an opportunity to witness of the Goodness of God---As a result we have met and come to know people of great faith from around the world.

Along with family, some of those that sacrificed their weekends to give care to Linda were: Helen Meadows, Lindsay Rumbold, Heather Swanson and Amy Peterson. Along with countless others that provided items of care and comfort.

At the end of the journey, the nurses, attending physicians and others all spoke of Linda's courage, strength, kindness, and most of all her Faith. She left a true "testimony" and charted a course for us all to follow.

There are so many others that have helped us along this journey and we shall ever be grateful. The family wants to thank Allie Ray McCullen, a UNC Board of Trustee, and family friend for his continuing support.

We want to thank the wonderful health care team at UNC Cancer Hospital to include Dr. Foster and Dr. Riches for their diligent efforts on Linda's behalf.

To all that prayed, gave, visited and ministered in various ways: Linda and our family are eternally grateful. Thank You

A service of celebration will be held at Corinth Baptist Church, 1107 Cornwallis Road, Rose Hill, NC on: Saturday May 8, 2021. There will be a visitation at 10:00 A.M. with the service at 11:00 A.M. As well as the main sanctuary, there will be seating for live-stream in the Family Life Center.  Interment will follow at the Eakins Family Cemetery off Point Caswell Road, Willard, NC.

You are invited to sign the online guestbook