Eleanor Marisol Keppel was born sleeping at 18 weeks and 5 days gestation on July 21, 2026, at 5:40 a.m. at Decatur County Memorial Hospital. Though her time on earth was far too brief, she was deeply loved from the very beginning. Eleanor measured 8½ inches long and weighed 6 ounces. She is the precious daughter of Curtis Keppel and Heaven Burton.
Long before her arrival, Eleanor had already touched the hearts of those who loved her. Her parents eagerly anticipated meeting their little girl and had begun decorating her nursery in preparation for her homecoming. Eleanor was an active little baby, often reminding her mommy she was there with gentle kicks and movements that brought both excitement and even a little morning sickness. Even the family’s beloved dogs, Benny and Ollie, seemed to know she was coming, happily sniffing and resting beside her mommy’s growing belly.
Although Eleanor’s family will never have the opportunity to celebrate the many milestones they dreamed of sharing with her, they will forever cherish the joy, hope, and love she brought into their lives. Her memory will remain a precious blessing, and they find comfort in the promise that one day they will hold her again.
Eleanor is survived by her parents, Curtis Keppel and Heaven Burton; her grandparents, Amy and Leedie Lair and Brad and Tonya Keppel, great grandparents, Lee and Jackie Brock and Kelly Miller; and her aunts and uncles, Nickolas Keppel, Kaitlynn Keppel, Sophia Keppel, and Devin Thomas.
Though her tiny footprints never had the chance to walk upon this earth, they have left an everlasting imprint on the hearts of all who love her. Eleanor Marisol Keppel will be forever loved, forever missed, and forever remembered.
Please lift Heaven and Curtis up in your prayers as they navigate this loss, share a favorite Bible verse or poem that helped you during your own loss. Online condolences can be left for them at www.gilliland-howe.com