William Deaver

"1927 – 2016" Canton – Patriarch William Russell Deaver, age 89, of the Cruso Community, winged his way home to be with his heavenly father on Monday, April 25, 2016 surrounded by those he loved at The Homestead. A native and lifelong resident of Haywood County, he was a son of the late William Taylor and Velda Blaylock Deaver. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy Mae Poston Deaver, who died in 2013; a son, Timothy Theodore Deaver; and baby Dovie Deanna Deaver; three brothers; and two sisters. Russell served his country proudly. Prior to his service, as a MP in the Marine Corp, he sailed as a sailor with the merchant marines. He was a very wise man. Russell gained wisdom through the years working at various places. This included working as a ship builder in Newport News, Virginia; he was a manager of a drive-in theater, and he ran Deaver's country store in Cruso on Highway 276. Russell was an avid farmer, a skilled electrician, and he retired from Eaton Corporation, after twenty-two years of dedicated service. Russell was a proud member of East Fork Baptist Church and served faithfully as deacon, a member of the choir, and taught women's Sunday school. He was also involved in county 4-H. Russell loved the Lord with all of his heart. He loved to read the Bible and history books. Russell enjoyed listening to old gospel music, and sitting on his front porch birdwatching. He loved watching sunsets, and telling "papaw" stories to his many grand and great-grandchildren. He always said that his needs were few and his wants even less. Russell leaves behind a legacy of strength, honor, patience, and most importantly LOVE! He is survived by five sons, Ronald Russell Deaver (Bhana), Harold Hugh Deaver (Carolyn), Basil Byrd Deaver, Samuel Shaphan Deaver, and Victor Vaughn (Amy); one daughter, Esther Elena White (Craig); two daughters-in-law, Teresa Cole and Angie Deaver; 18 grandchildren; and thirteen great-grandchildren, all of these brought tremendous joy to his life and he was proud of every single one of them. A memorial service, to celebrate and honor his life, will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 28, 2016 at East Fork Baptist Church with the Reverend Chan Chandler and Reverend Greg Cullen officiating.

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