Pamela Prince Eason Piney Flats TN Obituary and Death – The business and leadership community is mourning the profound loss of Pamela Prince Eason of Piney Flats, Tennessee, who passed away unexpectedly. A trailblazer in women’s business development, Pamela was best known as the long-serving President and CEO of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), a position she held with distinction since 2011. Her passing marks the end of an era for the national movement to uplift women and underrepresented entrepreneurs.
Pamela’s leadership at WBENC transformed the organization into one of the nation’s most impactful advocates for supplier diversity and women-owned businesses. Under her direction, WBENC forged strategic partnerships and launched innovative programs that provided critical support and visibility to thousands of female entrepreneurs. Among her most notable initiatives were efforts that prioritized the inclusion of Women of Color and LGBTQ+ business owners, expanding access and equity across sectors.
Known not only for her strategic vision but also for her ability to bring people together, Pamela cultivated influential collaborations with organizations such as the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC), the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC), WEConnect International, and Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP). These partnerships significantly broadened the reach and impact of WBENC, cementing Pamela’s role as a unifier and changemaker.
Her advocacy extended to the national policy level as well. At the time of her passing, Pamela was serving her third term on the National Women’s Business Council (NWBC), advising the President, Congress, and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Her insights were vital in shaping federal policy discussions surrounding women in business, making her a powerful voice for equity and entrepreneurship.
Pamela’s earlier professional journey included prominent corporate roles such as Vice President of Worldwide Procurement at Pfizer Inc., and executive positions at Texas Instruments, Warner-Lambert, and GSE Systems. She also brought entrepreneurial experience to her leadership, having been a co-owner of RMR Associates. Her diverse career gave her a rare depth of understanding in both corporate and small business dynamics.
In recognition of her contributions, Pamela received numerous accolades. She was inducted into the Women’s Business Enterprise Hall of Fame and the Enterprising Women Hall of Fame and was honored with the NAFE Woman of Achievement award. In 2023, she was celebrated at the Power Women Moves Gala and featured in Women Mean Business, a forthcoming book highlighting powerful female leaders.
Outside of her professional achievements, Pamela was deeply devoted to her family. A graduate of East Tennessee State University and Johns Hopkins University, she balanced her illustrious career with a rich personal life. She and her husband John raised three children and delighted in their six grandchildren. Whether snowboarding, playing tennis, or spending quiet moments with loved ones, family remained Pamela’s greatest joy.
Pamela Prince Eason’s legacy is indelible. She empowered generations of women, championed inclusion, and left a lasting impact on every life she touched. She will be remembered not only as a visionary leader but as a compassionate soul who truly moved the world forward.
