Billy Devine Deaton

Billy Devine Deaton, 73, of B & D. Avenue, Morganton, died Friday, June 23, 2006 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. Born on August 22, 1932 in Cleveland County, NC, he was the son of the late Carl Deaton, Sr. and Zona Devine Deaton. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a stepson, Mike Wellman. Billy was a member of Way of the Cross Baptist Church. He retired as a Sgt. First Class (E-7) after 20 years in the US Army and served two tours of duty in Vietnam. Mr. Deaton was owner of Deaton Refrigeration Co. and enjoyed woodworking. His mission in life was to witness and bring people to the Lord.

Billy is survived by his wife, Verlie Denton Deaton of the home; a stepdaughter, Bettye Baird and husband David, of Morganton; a step-daughter-in-law, Rachel Wellman of Morganton; a brother, Carl Deaton, Jr. of Gaffney, SC; a sister, Polly Holland and husband, Charles, of Matthews, NC; a niece, Tammy Cobb; two nephews, Chris Holland and Carl Deaton, III; an aunt, Alva Patterson; four step-grandchildren; and seven step-great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at 6:00 p.m., Monday, June 26, 2006 at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church Cemetery with Reverends Richard Ellington and Darrell Worley officiating. Graveside rites will be performed by the Valdese American Legion Post #234. At other times the family will be at the residence, 110 B & D Avenue, Morganton, NC 28655. Memorial contributions may be made to the Way of the Cross Baptist Church Building Fund, 4570 Denton’s Chapel Road, Morganton, NC 28655.