David Eakin, Ph.D.

With a broken heart, I share that David passed away on Monday, September 8th.  Humble and kind, he was also known as Dr. E and David Eakin, Ph.D.  There is an irony in me writing David's obituary; he was an eloquent writer with an expansive vocabulary, whereas I tend to be technical and concise.  Well, he always believed in me, so I will channel him and cheer myself on.  I am determined that this obituary not be stodgy or plain.  That simply will not do as a representation of David.

David had many lives, so to speak.  He was a registered nurse, a newspaper editor, and then a clinical psychologist.  I too had a former career, which was one of the many ways we were drawn together.  Our shared chapters began in graduate school. We were studying clinical psychology at Auburn University. I was enamored with his wit, intellect, and warm, sometimes mirthful, smile that reached his eyes.

He was valued and respected by his friends, family, patients, clients, and colleagues.  He truly valued every individual that impacted his life and cared deeply for all people, even those he didn't know.  To the end, he looked out for all of us, trying to be strong and positive.  He ensured I had the tools and support I needed.  He reminded me to live fully.  May we all do so.

Early this year, he was diagnosed with cancer, which was aggressive and progressed quickly.  David was determined throughout this process to be positive for himself and others.  He wanted to soak up moments of connection, joy, and the simple moments of everyday life.

He loved nature and hoped that trees would be planted in his honor.  So, in lieu of flowers, please plant and care for a native tree. Or, if that is not in your bailiwick, please donate to Sycamore Land Trust, Trees for Wildlife NWF, or National Forest Foundations in his honor.

Mid-October, there will be a celebration of David in Bloomington, Indiana.  Due to the suddenness, details are still being worked out.  The celebration will be informal as he preferred relaxed occasions to laugh, talk, and connect.  He loved all Auburn sports, especially football and basketball.  Looks like Auburn plays Georgia that weekend – a fitting rivalry.  When he moved to the south from Ohio as a teenager, he chose Auburn to be his team.  This was strengthened by pursuing graduate studies at Auburn University.  So, in celebration of David, War Eagle!

He is survived my me, his wife, Jacey Hammel, Ph.D., our dog Hank, dad Woody Eakin and his wife Sandra English, sister Deborah Eakin, Ph.D., sister Ann Eakin, Ph.D. and her husband Syd Craig, Ph.D., parents-in-love Agnes and Jack Stigall, brothers and sisters-in-love J.R. and Michelle Stigall, Willie and Kortney Stigall, Jason and Joni Stigall, beloved nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and loving friends.  He is preceded in death by his mother Dorie Eakin, his sister Becky Lambeth, and many beloved dogs.