Evelyn Deloris Greenlee

Evelyn Deloris Greenlee, 85, of Sullivan, MO, passed away peacefully early Tuesday, September 24, 2024, at The Arbors Memory Care of Dunsford Court in Sullivan.  Born on February 23, 1939, in Richwoods, MO, to Frank and Susie (Jones) Bridgeman, Evelyn grew up in the close-knit community of Cuba, MO, where she attended school and later in life, exhibited her dedication to lifelong learning by obtaining her GED and an associate's degree in accounting from East Central College in Union, MO.

Evelyn, fondly referred to by those who knew her best, began her journey in the workforce as a young woman serving smiles and coffee at the Midway Cafe in Cuba, MO. It was there that she met the love of her life, William "Gene" Greenlee. Their love blossomed, and they were united in marriage on October 25, 1956. Evelyn and Gene were blessed with three children: William Jr., David, and Louise. The family resided in Chicago for many years before choosing Sullivan, MO, as their final homestead.

Throughout her life, Evelyn balanced the demands of raising a family with her professional aspirations. She worked at Brown Shoe Co. for several years, where she was known for her diligent work ethic and warm camaraderie with her colleagues. After the passing of Gene in 1992, Evelyn courageously went back to school to study accounting, a testament to her resilience and determination. She thrived as a bookkeeper until her well-deserved retirement.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Evelyn and Gene opened their hearts and home as foster parents, touching the lives of many children with their generosity and love. Evelyn's loving nature extended to her role as a mother and grandmother.

An avid collector, Evelyn's home was adorned with a delightful array of dolls and figurines, each piece telling a story of her life's journey. In her later years, she embraced the joys of shopping from the comfort of her home, becoming a passionate "QVC" shopper. Friends and family would often find her with a twinkle in her eye as she anticipated the arrival of her latest find.

Evelyn's "sweet tooth" was legendary; she found great pleasure in the simple joys of cake, cookies, and candy, often sharing these treats with her loved ones during gatherings, infusing every moment with sweetness.

Evelyn is survived by her children:  William “Bill” Greenlee Jr. and wife, Jessica, David Greenlee and wife, Daphne all of Bourbon, MO and Louise Greenlee and significant other, Larry of Sullivan, MO; her grandchildren:  William Greenlee III of Sullivan, Andrea Barton and husband, James of Belleville, IL, Ian Greenlee of St. Louis, MO, Army Major David Greenlee Jr. and wife, Alysha of Fort Leavenworth, KS, Joshua Greenlee and wife, Ashley of Union, MO, Jeffrey Greenlee of Sullivan, Jeremy Greenlee and wife, Rebecca of Lebanon, MO, Jeffery Click Jr and Gabrielle Smith both of Sullivan, Jennifer Joy of Dallas, TX, Maren Riegert of Bourbon, MO, & Kaj Riegert of Pinintan Lake, BC, Canada; 20 great grandchildren; 4 sisters:  Shirley Blankenship, Marilyn Maupin and husband, Jim, Carol Klein and husband, Bud all of Sullivan, MO, and Debbie Starks and husband, Mike of Cuba, MO; and numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.

She was preceded in by her husband, William “Gene” Greenlee Sr.; her parents, Frank Bridgeman & Susie Verme; and a brother, Franklin Bridgeman.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.  Cremation has taken place.

Condolences may be shared online with Evelyn’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan, MO.