Estil "Eldon" Gilkey, 73, of Deepwater, Missouri passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family on September 24, 2026, at his home. The family will receive friends on Monday, September 28, 2026, from 5:00-7:00PM at the Vansant-Mills Chapel, Clinton, Missouri. Funeral services for Eldon will be held at 1:00PM on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at the Vansant-Mills Chapel, Clinton, Missouri. Interment will follow in Westfield Cemetery, Appleton City, Missouri. Family suggests memorial contributions be made to Pleasant Gap Christian Church or Hospice Compassus and may be left in care of funeral home. Family has asked to leave stories or fun memories of Eldon online at www.vansant-millsfuneralhome.com.
He was born on June 5, 1953, in Clinton, Missouri, to Bessie Loree (Stephan) and Estil Edward Gilkey.
Eldon was united in marriage to the love of his life, Nellie (Shouse), on December 17, 1979. Together, they were blessed with their only son, George Gilkey, their precious “miracle baby,” who was born on January 4, 1983. From the time George could walk, he went to work alongside his dad. Together, they could conquer anything, and the bond they shared was truly extraordinary.
Eldon spent his early years on the family farm with his brothers, Wayne and Roy. He shared a special bond with his baby brother, Wayne, whom he loved to spoil. At just six years old, Eldon purchased Wayne his first BB gun—a treasured memory that reflected Eldon’s generous heart and lifelong devotion to his family. He loved farm life and had a deep appreciation for all of the Lord’s creations.
Eldon worked for several years at Peabody Coal Company as a heavy equipment operator and mechanic, where he made many lifelong friends. Around 1972, he began working for himself and spent many years building a business alongside George. Together, they installed miles of water lines, primary electrical service, and countless cattle waters. Eldon took great pride in teaching George everything he knew. In later years, he found immense joy in teaching his granddaughters how to operate construction machinery, and he smiled with pride each time they climbed onto a machine.
There was very little Eldon could not fix. Whenever someone faced a problem, they could not solve, Eldon was only a phone call away. His knowledge, patience, and willingness to help touched countless lives. He never hesitated to lend a hand, share his advice, or find a way to make things right. His wisdom and guidance will be deeply missed.
Eldon had a wonderful sense of humor and was often lovingly described as a “real cut-up.” He especially enjoyed cooking with his girls and helping Memaw prepare all the things she dreamed of canning or freezing. He also loved spoiling his girls with “Cheeto parties,” which began when they were old enough to lick the cheese from the chips. These simple moments became treasured memories that his family will carry in their hearts forever.
Eldon loved spending time with his neighbors, grandchildren, and family. His family was his entire world. Whether he was working on a project with George, visiting with a neighbor, helping someone in need, or enjoying time with his grandchildren, Eldon was happiest when he was surrounded by the people he loved.
He leaves behind his loving wife, Nellie; his son, George, and daughter-in-law, Emily; his brothers, Wayne and Roy; and his five beloved granddaughters, Kallie Hart and her husband, Howie; Katie and her fiancé, Brody Smith; Kinley; Karlie; and Korie. His granddaughters were the light of his life, and each one held a special place in his heart.
Eldon was preceded in death by his parents.
Eldon leaves behind a legacy built not only with his strong hands, but also with his generous heart. He will be remembered as a loving husband, devoted father, cherished grandfather, beloved brother, loyal neighbor, trusted friend, and a man who could always be counted on. His laughter, wisdom, kindness, and unwavering love will live on in the many lives he touched.
Though his hands are now still, the countless things he built, repaired, taught, and made better will remain as a lasting reflection of the remarkable man he was. Eldon will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered until the day his family sees him again.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Vansant-Mills Funeral Home, in Clinton, Missouri.
#MidAmericaLive