Eli James Highfield

Eli James Highfield, age 2, of New Philadelphia, went to play with Jesus on a much bigger playground on Sunday, June 19, 2022, in Akron Children’s Hospital at Akron.

A son of Lauren Rose and Matthew Highfield, Eli was born on April 5, 2020, in the Ohio State University Hospital at Columbus.

Eli’s beautiful blonde hair, infectious smile, and big brown eyes were too beautiful to be contained on earth and instantly melted the hearts of those who met him. He had a love for dinosaurs and the ability to roar just as loud as the creatures he so admired. He loved riding his bike, playing with motorcycles, and playing with his friends. Eli also enjoyed nighttime, and his special nightly routine of telling everyone goodnight, being read to, and then being tucked in as he prepared to go to sleep.

Eli was blessed to have many special people in his life who lovingly cared for him including his Godparents with whom he shared many firsts which included the beautiful views of Colorado, special motorcycle rides, and a trip to the beaches of New Jersey, where he loved playing in the sand and dipping his feet in the edge of the ocean.

In addition to his parents, Eli is survived by his siblings, Gavin and Lucas Highfield, and Ava Eckleberry; his Godparents, Andrew and Cassaundra Eckleberry, his grandparents, Ron (Jennifer Cercone) Coombs, Jr., Theresa Coombs, Scott and Linda Highfield, Earl and Thereasa Scranton, Jimmy and Kathy Eckleberry, and Donna Ramsey; his aunt, Lisa Carpenter; his uncle, Evan Highfield; and many other extended family members who dearly loved him.

A private memorial service is planned for a later date when invited guests are asked to wear bright and colorful clothing. The Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia is handling Eli’s care.

Contributions in Eli’s name may be directed to Noah’s Hope Child Advocacy Center, PO Box 982, New Philadelphia, OH 44663 (noahshopecac.org) or Ronald McDonald House, 141 West State St., Akron, OH 44302 (rmhcneo.org).