Eileen Virginia Willibey

Eileen Willibey, formerly known as Eileen Coulson and Eileen Wright passed away Thursday, April 9, 2026, at the age of 89. Born to Floy (Swinehart) and Ralph Coulson, she was raised in Hamilton, Indiana with three brothers, Clayton, Roland, and Howard, all of whom preceded her in death.

Eileen graduated as the Salutatorian from Hamilton High School in 1954 and began her career in finance, working at Lincoln Life Insurance in Fort Wayne before returning to assist on the family farm during the summer. She later enjoyed stints at Hardware Wholesale Company in Auburn and Lincoln National Bank in Fort Wayne.

On October 31, 1959, she married Danny C. Wright, who was serving in the Navy. Their early years together took them to Boston and Great Lakes, Illinois, where their son, David Wright, was born. The family later moved back to Indiana, where Eileen worked at Edgerton State Bank while Danny found employment at Moore Business Forms in Angola Indiana and their daughter Debra (Wright) was born. Tragically, Danny passed away on August 1, 1970, while on a fishing trip in Wisconsin.

Eileen’s journey continued when she married Clarsehole Warstler on April 1, 1972. Stepchildren Robin Strohaver (Tyler and 2 step-great grandchildren), Becky Dudko, and Bill Warstler. (Robin and Becky preceded her in death.) Though their marriage ultimately ended in divorce, Eileen cherished her relationship with Cindy Wartler, who became a beloved friend and a treasured part of her life, along with Cindy’s sister Sylvia and children Rachel, Todd, Matt, and Andrew and their families.

Eileen later found love again with Duane Willibey, whom she married on August 17, 1985. Together, they embraced life to the fullest, travelling, spending winters in Harlingen, Texas, and enjoying family gatherings, including annual “Family Camp” and many travels to New Jersey. Duane predeceased Eileen on August 22, 1012.

Eileen is survived by her daughter Debra (Albert) Atmore as well has her cherished granddaughters Kaitlyn Atmore (Sean Feeney), Brenna Atmore (Alex Weightman), and Taryn Atmore.

Eileen is also survived by her son David Wright (Patty), step-grandchildren Charlotte, Shelley, Sheila, Edward (Chesca) and numerous step-great-grandchildren and step-great-great grandchildren.

In addition, she is also survived by stepchildren from the Willibey family: Gary (Sheila), Nila (Larry) App, Alan (Teresa), and Rita Duchane. Stepgrandchildren and step-great-grandchildren: Chris (Mellisa)Willibey (Kaylah (Ethan)Wilson (Cooper and Weston), Morgyn, Austyn; Katie (Chris) Benner (Daphne, Xavier, and Ethan); Betsy (Zach) Zaslow (Ari, Zev, and Hazel); Kellie (Michael) Stuckey (Adalyn & Oaklyn); Jamie Duchane; Meredith (Dan) Howard (Amelia and Abigail).

Beyond her family, Eileen was a lifelong member of Zion United Methodist Church (now known as Crossroads of Zion) and a participant in the Town and Country Ladies Club.

In her last year, Eileen moved to Smith Farms, an independent senior living community where she enjoyed her final months. Her warmth, spirit, and generous heart will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

The family wishes to thank everyone for their love and support during this difficult time. A celebration of Eileen’s life will be held on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at Crossroads of Zion, 7997-CR4A, Hamilton, Indiana, 46742. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. then a service lead by Dr. Seneta Maiko at 11:00 a.m. followed by burial at Eddy Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Dekalb Humane Society. 

Eileen’s legacy of love, resilience and connection will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends.