Harry Deyton, age 80, of Gilkey

Harry Deyton, age 80, of Gilkey, passed away Sunday, June 15, 2025.

Harry was born April 17, 1945 in Rutherford County to the late G.C. and Ina Deyton. He was a graduate of Chase High School. Harry honorably served his nation in the U.S. Navy and was stationed on the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima. Harry worked at Timken for 25 years before retirement. After his retirement, he worked at the Gilkey Convenience Center. He was a member of the Union Mills Volunteer Fire Department, actively involved with the Gilkey Community Center and the Neighbor's Pantry. He was a member of the Thermal City United Methodist Church and was currently attending Gilkey United Methodist Church.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by five sisters and four brothers.

Those left to honor his legacy are his wife, Kay Allen Deyton; children, Sharon Beaver (Mark) of Shelby, Kerry Lankford (John) of Ellenboro, Steve Deyton of Shiloh, Shaun Deyton (Jessica) of Henrietta, Susan Deyton Randolph (Jeremy) of Forest City, Amy Porter (Gary) of Henrietta and Jason Porter (Roxy) of Forest City; 17 grandchildren, four great grandchildren.

A gathering to celebrate Harry's life was held June 21 at Harrelson Funeral Home. Military honors were provided by the Rutherford Honor Guard.

Memorial donations requested to Neighbor's Pantry, 217 Gilkey School Rd., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 or to Gilkey UMC, 108 Aydlotte Rd., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 or Hospice of Carolina Foothills, PO Box 336, Forest City, NC 28043.

An online guest registry is available at www.harrelsonfuneralhome.com

Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.