Gary Dean Deaton

Gary Dean Deaton, 77, of Hickory, passed away Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at his residence. Born September 7, 1948, he was the son of the late George Propst Deaton and Nora Deaton.

Gary had a deep love for his country and proudly served in the United States Army as a Vietnam veteran with the 4th Infantry Division. He enjoyed drag racing and hot rods, loved to cook, and found great pleasure in riding horses. Gary was also devoted to his dogs, Molly, Destiny, and Peanut. A very private man, he loved his family deeply.

Survivors include his sisters, Patricia Davis and Vickie Hanan; his cousin, Jim Deaton; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Barbara Hefner, and his brothers-in-law, Jack Hefner and Tommy Davis.

The funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, January 16, 2026, at Mountain View Mennonite Church. The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. prior to the service at the church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Please sign the online guestbook on the Memorial Wall at www.jenkinsfuneralhome.net. The Deaton family has entrusted arrangements to Jenkins Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Newton (828-464-1555).