James Deaton

(From Lakin Funeral Home)

James C. Deaton, age 81, passed away on Tuesday, January 17, 2023, at his home in Wentworth, MO. He was born in Texola, OK on Thursday, February 6, 1941; son of Clark and Bonnie (Beesinger) Deaton. 

Mr. Deaton married Lyna Guenther on June 02, 1963, in Fredericksburg, IA. He spent 4 years in the US Navy where he served his country. He absolutely loved and was able to see much of the country as a semi-truck driver. 

Family was so important to him. He took each child and grandchild with him for a week on the semi-truck. Mr. Deaton also attended many cattle shows with the grandchildren. He also enjoyed spending time with his dogs, Bo and Ginger. 

Mr. Deaton taught himself how to play the guitar and spent many hours playing. He loved Western books and movies. He was an active member of the Chapel of Grace Church in Monett, MO where he drove the bus to pick up kids on Wednesday nights and Sunday mornings. Mr. Deaton was a man of few words but when he spoke, it was worth listening. He enjoyed life!

Surviving are the following: his wife, Lyna of Wentworth, MO; a son, Gardy Deaton of Wentworth, MO; a daughter, Audra (Daniel) Lindner of Wentworth, MO; a brother, Bennie Deaton of Southwestern, KS; three precious grandchildren, Brittany (Jonathon) Little and three children, Kaleb (Mercedes) Freeman and three children, and Kyla (Zakary) Freeman-Abramovitz and one child; several nieces and nephews; and many friends.

Those welcoming him to heaven include his parents, Clark and Bonnie Deaton; an infant daughter, Deborah Deaton; a great-grandchild, Kaden Freeman-Abramovitz; a brother, Jack Deaton; and two sisters, Ida Morris and Nancy Beckett.

The family will receive friends at Lakin Funeral Home in Pierce City, MO on Sunday, January 22, 2023, from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM.

Funeral Services will be at Lakin Funeral Home in Pierce City, MO on Monday, January 23, 2023, beginning at 10:00 AM with Pastor Jimmie Finch officiating. Burial will follow at Cook Family cemetery in Wentworth, MO.

Memorials may be made to the Pierce City Senior Citizen Center or to Integrity Hospice of Monett. Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Lakin Funeral Home in Pierce City, MO.