Austin R. Deaton, Jr. died March 11, 2009 in his home. His death leaves a huge Austin-shaped hole in our universe. To those who loved him, it is almost impossible to imagine a world in which Austin does not exist. He was born March 3, 1926 the second of five children.
He was a nurturing and loving father. His example of pursuing goals that often seemed out of reach inspired his children and grandchildren. His support allowed them the opportunity to grow and blossom. His pride in his grand children was always evident in the glow on his face when he spoke of them. Austin lost his precious daughter, Amy Elizabeth Deaton, on September 3, 1978. The love of his life, his beautiful wife Elizabeth Nadine Franklin Deaton, also preceded him in death on January 17, 1993. He is survived by his daughter Dr. Rebecca Deaton of Tulsa, OK and her daughter Clea E. Alsip of New York, NY, and his son and daughter-in-law Clay and LaNan Deaton and their children Zachary, Sara, and Amy of Houston, TX.
Austin was an attorney of distinction, a true gentleman and a scholar. He entered the practice of law in 1951 and remained active until 2008. Austin practiced law with the utmost of integrity and morality. He was honored in 2000 with the John E. Shipp Ethics Award presented by the Oklahoma Bar Association. He served as chairman and member of the Oklahoma Judicial Nominating Committee (1977-1983). He was a fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers and a member of the Oklahoma and Pontotoc County Bar Associations.
Austin would want gifts that honor him to do good work. Therefore, in lieu of flowers, gifts can be made in his honor to: East Central University Foundation, Care of ECU Box Y-9, Ada, OK 74820; or American Cancer Society, 6525 North Meridian, Suite 110, Oklahoma City, OK 73116
His memorial service will be held at the First Baptist Church, 521 S. Broadway, Ada, OK on Monday March 16, 2009 at 2:00 p.m.
To a life well lived.