Gerald L. Deaton, 86, of Greenwood, passed away Saturday, September 21, 2024 at his home.

Born on February 2, 1938, in Charlotte, NC, he was the son of the late Edgar C. Deaton and Mildred Styron Deaton. Graduating from Greenwood High School in 1956, Gerald continued his academic journey, attending Mars Hill College in 1958, Lander College in 1959, and Florida State University in 1960. He worked for Coca-Cola Export Corporation in New York and Atlanta from 1970-1983, then returned to Greenwood and was employed by the SC Department of Motor Vehicles from 1988 until his retirement in 2000.

Gerald's commitment to his faith was solid. He grew up attending South Main Baptist Church and later became a devoted member of Harris Baptist Church when returning to Greenwood in 1988. He shared his gift of music as a soloist member of the choir and a member of the Master Disciples Sunday School Class. A man of great empathy, Gerald found fulfillment in visiting hospital and nursing home patients, transforming compassion into action as he ministered to those in need.

Gerald is survived by an aunt, Felicia Lowman of Greenwood and numerous cousins.

Services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Thursday at Harris Baptist Church with Rev. Frank Thomas and Rev. David Clegg officiating. Burial will follow at Greenwood Memorial Gardens.

Honorary escort will be members of the Master Disciples Sunday School Class.

There will be a time of visitation prior to the service from 1:00-2:00 p.m. at the church.

Memorials may be made to Harris Baptist Church, 300 Center Street, Greenwood, SC 29649.