William Royce Deaton, 86 of Gainesville passed away peacefully on August 4, 2025.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and proud veteran, Royce lived a life marked by service, humility, and quiet strength.

Born on June 25, 1939, to the late William Ralph Deaton and Bertha Sargent Deaton, Royce served honorably in the United States Air Force. He later spent much of his professional life with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, where he retired after a long and dedicated career.

Royce was a man of character and deep family devotion who found joy in simple pleasures and meaningful relationships. In his later years, he enjoyed attending services at Flat Creek Baptist Church and valued the friendships and fellowship he found there. He was also an avid golfer who loved the game and cherished the time spent on the course with friends and family.

He is preceded in death by his beloved son, Michael Todd Deaton.

Royce is survived by his wife of 66 years, Ann Deaton, his son, Randy Deaton, and his grandchildren, Ashley (Jeff) Miller, Ryan Deaton, Andrew Deaton, and Nicholaus Deaton, he was blessed with nine great-grandchildren who brought him tremendous joy. Royce is also survived by his sisters, Conchita (Bill Black), Juanita (Jerry Davis), and Rita Bridges.

Royce will be remembered for his kind heart, steady presence, love for his family, and the quiet dignity with which he lived his life. His legacy will carry on through those who loved and knew him.

Funeral services will be held Thursday August 7, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. in the chapel of Little & Davenport Funeral Home.  Dr. Zach Williams will officiate. Interment will follow at the Alta Vista Cemetery with Rev. Mike Taylor officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Wednesday August 6 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that memorial contributions please be made to Hospice of Northeast Georgia or Flat Creek Baptist Church Community Center Fund in memory of Royce.

Those wishing to send online condolences to the family may do so at littledavenport.com

Arrangements are in the care of Little & Davenport Funeral Home and Crematory, 355 Dawsonville Highway, SW, Gainesville, Georgia 30501.