Dwight Raymond “Ray” Deaton was born February 15, 1955, to Raymond H. and Melba Lowe Deaton in Greenville, Texas. On Tuesday, October 13, 2026, Ray entered the gates of Heaven in Dallas, Texas, leaving behind a lifetime of memories, a family who loved him dearly, and a legacy that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Ray was a devoted husband, a loving father, a faithful servant of the Lord, a dedicated public servant, a coach, a friend, and a man whose quiet strength left a lasting impression. But of all the roles he held throughout his life, the one he cherished most was being PawPaw, and all who knew him knew nothing came above being a PawPaw. He was a man of strength, dignity, and unwavering character. A man who feared nothing but the Good Lord above. A man who stood firm in what he believed, and lived life in his own way. He had a heart that loved deeply, and a spirit that could not be easily shaken. He loved many, though there were times he would sooner carry on a conversation with his animals (Jiminy Cricket & Sally) than with some of the people around him.
Ray attended Greenville High School, where he was a proud member of the Class of 1973 and participated in the Greenville Lions football and track teams. His dedication and determination earned him the Fighting Lion Heart Award for football during his senior year. He also advanced to the state level in track, competing in pole vaulting. Even in his younger years, Ray demonstrated the grit, perseverance, and competitive spirit that would remain a part of him throughout his life.
In 1975, Ray began his career with the Texas Department of Public Safety, graduating from the B-1975 Patrol School in 1976. Through years of dedicated service, he worked his way to the rank of Texas Highway Patrol Sergeant, retiring in 2008 after 33 years of service.
Ray married the love of his life, Catherine Ann “Cathy” Butler on April 26, 1991, and together they built a life filled with love, faith, family, and countless cherished memories. Some of their happiest times were spent together on their farm in Commerce, where they shared the simple joys of life and made memories that would last a lifetime. Their life together was rooted in love and faith that grew stronger through the years.
Faith was an important part of Ray’s life. Together, Ray and Cathy led the children’s ministry at Ridgecrest Baptist Church, sharing their hearts and faith with the younger generation. Ray also served as a deacon at the church for many years, faithfully giving of himself and serving his church family.
After beating cancer in the late 1970’s, Ray committed his life to fitness and wellness, in 1987 he began his bodybuilding journey. On May 1, 1993, in the AAU Mr. Texas Bodybuilding Contest he was awarded the winner of the “35-44” contestation category at the age of 38. That commitment continued as he instilled this value in many. Pole vaulting never left him, he went on to coach pole vaulting at Wolfe City, where he adored the young athletes entrusted to him. He cared for his kids, encouraged them, and took pride in watching them grow.
No one told the stories, gave the hugs, or shared their love quite like PawPaw. To his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he was so much more than a title. Though his chair may be empty and his voice may be missed, the love he poured into his family will never leave them.
Ray leaves behind his beloved wife of 35 years, Cathy; his mother, Melba Deaton; his sister, Cathy Deaton Sumrow; his brother, Bobby Deaton and wife Kym; sons, Brian McWhirter and wife Lea, and Bart Deaton and Stacy; Daughter-in-law Charlie Conway and husband Tom; his cherished grandchildren, Jayla and her husband Colton, Gage, Katelyn, Brooklyn, Gentry, Rhynn, and Chandler; and his beloved great-grandchildren, Colter, Cayson, and Callen and his dearest friend, Tim Simmons; along with numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives. Each of them held a special place in Ray’s heart, and each will carry a piece of his love with them throughout their lives.
He was preceded in death by his father, Raymond H. Deaton, and his grandparents, John and Ruby Deaton and Floyd and Eveline Lowe.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, October 24 at Cross Trails Cowboy Church (4761 FM 1563, Wolfe City, Texas) at 10:00 a.m. Services will be officiated by RJ Nanny and Adam Hailes.
Honorary pallbearers will be his brothers and sisters of the Texas Highway Patrol.
Coker-Mathews Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.