Obituary of Eileen Mary Anna Brillinger

Brillinger: Eileen (formerly Carnegie) nee Ball  

It is with great sadness that the family of Eileen Brillinger announces her passing on Sunday, August 8^th, 2021 at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance. Born January 1^st, 1923 in Chatham, Eileen was the daughter of the late George Ball and Annie Hazelton, and was the last remaining of 8 children. Her parents died when she was a young girl, and she was raised by her older siblings.

Eileen is predeceased by two loving husbands, both great dancers – Fred Carnegie (1973), and Claude Brillinger (2005). Also predeceased by her son Gary Carnegie (2011).

Cherished and loving Mother of Gayle Shantz (Roger) of Chatham. Special “Mom” to Sharon Babcock (Hal) of Orangeville, and Deb Carnegie (Gus) of Chatham. Cool and cherished Grandmother to Ben Simpson (Liz), Diana Simpson (Andrew), Rachel Ripley (Chris), Sarah Oger (Dan), and Katie Babcock. Loving Grammy to Dayton and Kinsey Keech, Paxton, Sylas and Griffin Ripley, and Sophie and Nate Oger.

Predeceased by her sisters Claire Mann, Mildred Teetzel, Wilda Smith, Jean Cummings, and her brothers John, Jim, and Mac Ball.

Lovingly remembered by many special nieces, nephews, other extended family members, and dear friends.

Eileen graduated from the Chatham Business College, then working at American Pad & Textile, and the Chatham Sugar Beet Factory before purchasing the farm with Fred on #3 Highway in 1948. There she raised her children and helped with farm work. She ended her career by working at the Ridgetown College of Agriculture and Technology. In retirement her winters were spent in Florida. In her retirement, she also learned to golf and bowl – excelling at both. She was a member of Mount Zion Presbyterian Church, Ridgetown.

Eileen was happiest when she was with any member of her family. This amazing lady will be forever remembered for the love, kindness, and strength that was shown to everyone she met.

Cremation has taken place. A Private Family Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, August 11^th, 2021 at 1pm. Interment to follow in Trinity Anglican Cemetery, Morpeth. The Celebration of Life will be livestreamed via the Funeral Home website.

CLICK HERE FOR LIVESTREAM

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in Eileen’s memory to the Alzheimer Society of Chatham Kent, Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation, or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com.

McKinlay Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham, 519-351-2040