Wednesday, February 13, 2013 11:10 am

Mr. Don Harold Deaton, Sr., 73, of Shelby, NC, passed away on January 26, 2013, at his residence.  A native of Gaston County, he was the son of the late O.B. Deaton and Essie Wilson Deaton.  Mr. Deaton had actively attended Royster Avenue Church of God. He had worked and later retired from Duke Power after nearly 20 years of service. He was a Carolina Panthers fan and enjoyed watching football, nascar, working in the garden and spending time outdoors. He was a life-time member of the Disabled American Veterans having served in the U.S. Army.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his grandmother, Lessie Haney Wilson, who had raised him as her own from his birth; one sister, Carolyn Cowart; brother-in-law, Jack Yates.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Hattie D. Deaton of the home; four daughters, Donna Deaton Huss and husband Keith of Belwood, NC, Rebecca Deaton Walters and husband Brian of Angier, NC, Marie Deaton Matola and special friend Shawn Pruett of Shelby and Jenny Deaton Stafford of Shelby; one son, Don Harold “Bo” Deaton Jr.; two sisters, Joyce Tatham and husband Jack of Shelby and Bobbie Yates of Andrews, NC; 12 grandchildren; five great grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation:  The family will receive friends at Cleveland Funeral Services

                    Monday, January 28, 2013 from 6:00 – 8:00 pm.

Funeral:    Royster Avenue Church of God, Tuesday, 1:00 pm

Officiating:  Revs. Richard Shores, Keith Huss, Travis Mull and Jeff Marburger

Burial:       Cleveland Memorial Park

Memorials:   Church of God Childrens Home of NC, 3485 Orphanage Circle, Concord, NC 28027

FUNERAL HOME:  Cleveland Funeral Services & Crematory

On line condolences:   www.clevelandfuneralservice.com