Obituary
Robert Deaton

Robert Wayne Deaton, beloved husband, father, grandfather, educator, and coach, passed away on March 23, 2024, at the age of 84. He leaves behind a legacy of passion, dedication and faith that will be cherished by all who knew him. Born on July 15, 1939, Bob grew up in Staley, North Carolina, with a love for sports, particularly baseball. His talent and dedication led him to play baseball at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he was a dual sport athlete, part of an ACC championship and pitched in UNC’s first ever appearance in the College World Series in 1960. Following his graduation, Bob embarked on a remarkable career in education that spanned 34 years. As a coach, teacher, and principal, he touched the lives of countless students and colleagues. Bob’s commitment to education extended beyond the classroom and he proudly coached high school sports during the challenging era of desegregation in North Carolina, demonstrating his unwavering belief in equality and inclusivity. Off the field and beyond the schoolhouse, Bob found joy in the game of golf. Whether playing a round with the crew at the Country Club of Johnston County, or playing an afternoon 9 holes with his sons, he relished the camaraderie and fulfillment that the sport brought him. Bob will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to his family, his dedication to his students, and his passion for Tarheel athletics. He is survived by his loving wife Louise Deaton, brother Chris Deaton, his children Robert Deaton Jr, Ann Joyce, Tad Deaton and Nicholas Deaton, his grandchildren Rob, Addison, Hannah, Collin, Brody, Avery, and Haddie, his great-grandchildren Connor and Jameson, and a large extended family and circle of friends. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The North Carolina Foundation for Public School Children in memory of Bob’s lifelong dedication to public education and his incredible desire to help those in need. A funeral mass celebrating Bob’s life will be held on April 4th, 2024, at 11 o’clock AM, at St. Michael the Archangel Church in Cary, North Carolina, where friends and family will come together to honor and remember a remarkable man whose impact will continue to be felt for generations to come.