Keithley Roderick Deaton Obituary

Keithley Roderick Deaton, of London, Kentucky and a cherished member of the community, passed away on Tuesday, September 3, 2024 at the age of 74.  Keithley retired from Senture, where he made a lasting impact in the recruiting department. His career was marked by dedication and a genuine passion for helping others find their path.

An avid sports fan, Keithley passionately followed the University of Kentucky Wildcats and Hazard High School teams. His enthusiasm for sports was matched only by his love for golf, a pastime that brought him immense joy and many cherished memories.

Known for his friendly demeanor, Keithley never met a stranger and always had a kind word and helpful hand for those in need. His generosity, kindness, and distinctive ability to hold his own in any argument—often with a knowing grin and the occasional reminder that he was always right—endeared him to many. His signature phrase, “Stop being stupid,” was both a humorous and heartfelt reminder of his straightforward, no-nonsense approach to life.

Keithley’s presence was a comforting constant in Eastern Kentucky, where his knowledge of the community and its people was unparalleled. He had an extraordinary knack for making everyone he met feel like a friend, and his impeccable sense of style and pleasant aroma made a lasting impression on those around him.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Delores Mattingly Deaton; three children, Keith Deaton & wife Suzanne, Kelly Pratt & husband Scott, Kevin Deaton & wife Cathy, all of Hazard, KY; nine grandchildren, McKenna Deaton, Zane Deaton, Matthew Couch, Mason Couch, Maddox Couch, David Napier, Carson Deaton, Kendall Deaton, Miracle Hubbard; two stepchildren, Conrad Cessna & wife Johnna of London, KY, along with their children, Jacyi & Jasper, Christopher Cessna & wife Whitney of Louisville, KY, along with their child, Remi; special friends, Trish Mulligan, Jim Holliday, Charles Wooton; plus a host of other family and friends to mourn his passing.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roderick & Mae Campbell Deaton; and by two siblings, Denny Deaton, Betty Jo Roach.

Keithley Roderick Deaton’s vibrant spirit and larger-than-life personality will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of kindness, humor, and steadfast friendship will continue to live on in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have crossed his path.

Funeral services for Keithley Roderick Deaton were held on Friday, September 6, 2024 at 1:30 p.m. in the chapel of House-Rawlings Funeral Home with Brad Parrett officiating.  The family entrusted House-Rawlings Funeral Home with the arrangements.