"ALL day and ALL night ANGELS are watching over the Costen Family"

Eola Virginia Hoffler Costen, beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2024, in Eure, North Carolina, at the age of 93. Eola, affectionately known as "Smiley," was born on March 28, 1930, in Sunbury, Virginia, to the late Mike K. Hoffler and Olar "Taylor" Hoffler.

Eola attended Middle Swamp Grade School and graduated from TS Cooper High School. Eola began her career working as a waitress in Norfolk, Virginia. After moving to Portsmouth she worked at the lunch counter at F. W. Woolworth. She continued to work for FW Woolworth in Jamaica, New York after relocating there.  She eventually became a Keypunch Operator. However, it was her passion for beauty culture that led her to become a licensed Beautician. Eola opened her own salon, "Cinderellas," where she served her loyal clientele for over 30 years until her retirement at the age of 65.

Eola was a dedicated member of New Piney Grove Baptist Church and later Calvary Baptist Church and New Jerusalem Baptist Church. She was known for her beautiful singing voice and active participation in the church choir.

In her free time, Eola enjoyed sewing, knitting, and crocheting, as well as watching a variety of sports, with baseball being her favorite. She cherished family gatherings, cooking for loved ones, and playing Bid Whist with her siblings and children.

Eola is survived by her six children: Mayvonnie V. Anderson, Michael R. Costen, Joandell S. Blake, Robert E. Costen, Vanessa R. Hicks, and Pamela A. Timberlake, along with numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert W. Costen, and several siblings.

A funeral service to honor and celebrate Eola's life will be held at New Piney Grove Baptist Church, located at 598 Medical Center Road, Gates, NC 27938. The Dennis J. Stallings Funeral Home in Gatesville, NC, is assisting the family with the funeral arrangements.

Eola's kindness, generosity, and love will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. May she rest in peace.