Bernice Irene Deaton

Bernice Irene Lowdermilk Deaton, of Sautee Nacoochee Georgia, and formerly of Ellerbe, NC, departed her earthly life on May 2, 2021. She was preceded in death by her parents, John Andrew Jackson Lowdermilk and Marietta Baird Lowdermilk of Morganton, NC, and ten siblings. Also preceding her were her husband, Warren Franklin Deaton (deceased November 14, 1997), and her daughter, Laura Deborah Deaton Gordon (deceased December 10, 1968). She is survived by children Warren Franklin (Frank) Deaton and wife Patsy, Joel Lowdermilk Deaton and Judy, and daughter Lisa Deaton; grandchildren Laura Poole and David, Karen Shryock and Mike, Brian Deaton and Peggy; and six great-grandchildren.

Bernice’s interests in life were farming, quilting, sewing, walking, gardening and being a poultry producer. For many years, weather permitting, she could be seen walking three to five miles each day on the country roads near her home in the Mt. Pleasant community. Many friends and neighbors watched for her as they drove to and from their activities and looked forward to seeing her each day.

During the winter months, she enjoyed quilting and produced many beautiful quilts, blankets, pillows and other items. One of her greatest sources of pride was the quilt show held at the Ellerbe United Methodist Church is 2005 where family and members of the community were able to view many of her lovely creations. After her move to Georgia in 2017, the local paper produced an article about her quilting hobby.

Bernice was also well known among family and friends for her cooking skills. She made wonderful biscuits, fried apple pies, chili, chicken and dumplings, pound cake and pickles.

As a country farmer, she often had encounters with wildlife. Numerous stories abound about her engagement with snakes, particularly rattlesnakes, and how she quickly disposed of these pesky specimens. For this, she gained quite a reputation. Also an avid gardener, she maintained a large vegetable garden. She and her husband Warren provided vegetables for many in the community and fruit stands in the surrounding area. She spent many hours creating and tending to her flower gardens which were an ongoing project.

A woman of few words, she said what she meant. All who knew her found pleasure in seeing her smile or laugh. She and Warren enjoyed many years together, filled with both joy and sorrow. The loss of her daughter Debbie was difficult for her through her life.

Bernice was involved in many community activities throughout her life. She served many years of the Advisory Board for Pee Dee Electric. She also served as precinct registrar and poll worker and believed in the right for all to vote. She was also active in the Mt. Pleasant Community Club, the local 4H program, MYF and various committees at the Mt. Pleasant and Ellerbe Methodist Churches, Home Demonstration Club, and Ellerbe Civitans.

Though her activities decreased in later years, she continued to forge ahead in her own way. She became a dedicated and constant reader, enjoying a multitude of books on varied topics. Thanks must to given to those who helped her so much. Her daughter Lisa and husband Hank (deceased May, 2019) welcomed her into their Georgia home and introduced her to a new community. Thanks also to the many people in Ellerbe who were faithful to her and helped her to remain an active part of the community. The Deaton family will be forever grateful.

At this time, a private graveside service will be held for family. At a later date, a memorial service will be held in order to celebrate her life and share remembrances with the community. Those wishing to honor her memory may make a donation to any of the following organizations: The Ellerbe Rescue Squad, the Mt. Pleasant Community Club, or Hospice of Northeast Georgia.

Online condolences may be made at www.watson-kingfuneralhome.com Watson-King Funeral Home in Rockingham is serving the Deaton family.

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