Lyndell Ray Deaton, 89, of Pinehurst passed away on Sunday, April 7, 2024 at his home in Pinehurst National Golf Club, surrounded by his loved ones.
Ray was born in Ada, OK on October 15, 1934 to the late Austin and Iona Wilson Deaton.
Ray grew up in Bakersville, CA. He attended the University of Oklahoma on a football scholarship and had a life-long love for Sooner sports. Ray had a passion for airplanes which led him to a successful 40-year career with McDonnell Douglas Aeronautics Corporation. One of the most important and favorite projects Ray worked on was the Apollo 8 mission. Later he was Director of ACES 11 project which manufactured ejection seats for pilots. He was an advocate for women in the workplace and received many awards including the President’s Award which was awarded to the most outstanding employee in the entire company.
During his career he spent time in China and England. He retired as Vice President of Asian Operations in 1995. In 2005, he and his wife of 58 years retired to Pinehurst after having spent 40 years on Merritt Island, FL.
In his free time, he enjoyed spending time with his beloved granddaughter Becca, his family, playing golf, painting and photography. He was also a published author.
Ray is survived by his wife, Rebecca Ballard Deaton; their sons, David and Warren Deaton, his sons, Greg and Paul and their families; granddaughter, Becca Paulini (Robert); great-granddaughter, Adeline Rose Paulini; his sister Ovadine Patterson, and many other extended members.
He was preceded in death by a son Mark Deaton; and two brothers, Austin Deaton Jr, and JW Deaton.
A Celebration of Life Service is being planned for Saturday, May 18, 2024. Details will be announced.
In lieu of flowers, please direct memorial contributions to American Parkinson Disease Association, PO Box 61420, Stanten Island, NY 10306.
Online condolences may be made at www.bolesfuneralhome.com
Services are entrusted to Boles Funeral Home of Pinehurst.
