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Hazel Deaton Hazel Deaton was born on March 10th 1928 in Banks County, Georgia. Everyone loved Hazel, as she was very outgoing and intelligent. Hazel drowned when she was only thirteen years old. She was at a school picnic and the children were playing at the edge of the water at Soque River. A girl (Sarah Jane Haslett) was swept under the water by a swift undercurrent, and a boy (Gordon Foster) went in to help her. He was swept under. Hazel, being an excellent swimmer, went in to save them. All three died on May 19, 1942. Father: John Henry Deaton Mother : Cora Jane Lawrence Sister : Ruth Deaton, Johnnie Deaton Brother : Stark Deaton ________________ _______ March 18th 1928 - May 19th 1942 Savannah Morning News, 5/42 Hazel Deaton L to R: Hazel, Stark, Cora, John Henry, Johnnie, Ruth Hazel Deaton Hazel's Death Location (Habersham Mill 2024) Newspaper Clip when Hazel was in Second Grade Last Book Hazel Read Hazel's Handwriting

Isaac Abraham Deaton July 10th 1897 – April 9th 1988 Isaac Abraham Deaton, known as Ike, was born July 8, 1897. He was the third son of Leuticia Carver and John Starlin Deaton. After his father was killed he chose not to go with his half-sister, Etta Davis Deaton, to Georgia. So he lived with Dr. Leonard at first and later with several other families in Telico Plains, TN growing up. When he was nineteen years old there were no jobs to be found. He said he was hungry and saw a sign that read, "THE MARINES ARE LOOKING FOR A FEW GOOD MEN". He went in, joined and stayed thirty-four months. He spoke Spanish fluently, even though he only finished the second grade. All of the Deaton men had very little formal education but had excellent minds. He married Phebie Ellis on August 24, 1922. Phebie was born June 29, 1905. Her parents were John Ellis and Cordelia Kilby Ellis. Ike and Phebie had thirteen children but four of them died as infants. When Rueben Deaton's wife died, Ike went to Cherokee and got his brother's son, Johnnie, and brought him home to live with the family. Johnnie stayed with them until he married. Ike spent most of his life working in logging camps. He owned a farm in Madisonville, TN. His wife, children, and hired hands worked the farm. He had a small house on the farm and usually there was a family living in it that helped with the work. (Lucille Deaton Roberts, Robert Lee Deaton's daughter, has fond memories of living in that house for about four years when she was very young. She enjoyed the time spent with Uncle Ike's children.) He would be gone for long periods of time working at the logging camp. His specific duty was keeping the saws sharpened. The story goes that often the younger children would forget who he was during the absences. Murlon, one of the younger children, was outside playing when Ike returned home one day from the logging camp. He asked the child if he could speak to his mother. He immediately ran inside and told his mother some old man outside wanted to speak with her. He was a hard-working man who loved his family. The Deaton's were notorious for making and drinking whiskey. Yet here was a man that only had whiskey touch his lips one time which was enough for him. Isaac during his time in the Military Fa ther : John Starlin Deaton Mother : Leuticia Carver Brothers: Reuben Deaton , David Deaton , Robert Lee Deaton Half Brothers : John Henry Deaton, Jacob Leander Deaton , Harve Wesley Deaton ____________________ Wife : Phebie Ellis Children : Edia, James Jurlon, Inis, Clarence Murlon, Arthur Starlon, Inez, Farley, Robert Earl, Lavonda Isaac and his wife Phebie Front row (L to R): Farley, Murlon, Edia Second row (L to R): Phebie, Starlon, Ike, Inez Back (L to R): Inis, Jurlon Isaac's wife, Phebie, died September 23, 1980 and Ike died April 9, 1988. They are buried at Big Creek Cemetery in Monroe County, TN. Marie McDonald, his granddaughter, said he was a very stately man, and reminded her of Abraham Lincoln. She remembers her grandmother as being a very kind person and the best fisherman in the world. Christine Pressley remembers as the oldest grandchild, she played with her aunts and uncles. The house was always full of neighborhood children. She remembers that her grandmother always swept and mopped the kitchen every morning after breakfast. Karen Palmer has fond memories of visiting on the farm with her grandparents in Lenoir City, TN. She would help her grandfather mend the fences and plant tobacco. She remembers helping her grandmother taking care of the chickens and storing canned items in the cellar. Since they lived in Army housing it was a huge treat to go to the farm to visit. Every Photo I have seen of Isaac Deaton

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Search Results 50 items found for "" My Family Tree | Deaton Family History Website Deaton Family Tree Click a profile and learn more! Fullscreen Page | Deaton Family History Website Harve Wesley Deaton | Deaton Family History Website Harve Wesley Deaton November 14th 1907 - July 3rd 1997 Harve Wesley Deaton was the youngest son of John Starlin Deaton and Etta Icie Davis. He was born on November 14th of 1907 in Robbinsville, North Carolina. He was only three months old when his father was shot and killed near Hanging Dog, North Carolina. Harve's mother, Etta, packed up everything they owned onto a cart pulled by an ox to take her and her children all the way to Towns County, Georgia. Etta's half brothers, David and Robert Lee Deaton went with them too. Father : John Starlin Deaton Mother : Etta Icie Davis Brothers : John Henry Deaton , Jacob Leander Deaton Half Brothers : Reuben Deaton , David Deaton , Isaac Deaton , Robert Lee Deaton , Charlie Meeler , Robert Lee Meeler Half Sisters : Odell Meeler , Elsie Meeler ____________________ Wife : Bertie Mae Deaton Children : Martha Ann Deaton , Harry Wayne Deaton Child with Dicey Lawrence: Fred Gibson L to R: Harve Wesley Deaton, Etta Meeler, John Henry Deaton They were welcomed by John Starlin's sister, Martha Ann Wheeler. Harve loved Martha Ann Wheeler; so much so that he eventually named his first daughter after her. She was very outspoken and Harve loved to ask her questions about the past. Martha Ann Wheeler (Harve's Aunt) John Starlin Deaton (Harve's father) Growing up in Banks County Etta and the children eventually moved to Banks County and Etta remarried to James W. Meeler. He started to become very mean to the Deaton children. John Henry, Jake and Harve frequently huddled up outside the house in the chimney corner to stay warm. Etta would secretly slip them in through the window at night after Meeler had went to sleep. During the day they stayed in the barn and Etta had to slip them bread out of the house in her apron in order to feed them. Things continued to get worse and Etta had to start begging the neighbors to raise the older children. At the age of 9 years old, Harve went to live with Robert "Chub" and Hannah Lawrence, who also took care of the elderly. Harve really liked Hannah Lawrence and helped her take care of the old folks. Harve went to school to the 3rd grade, so he had to teach himself how to read, write, and do math. His teacher was Tom E. Anderson at Grady Academy. He lived with Hannah and Chub until he was 16 years old and then decided to go work in the logging camp of the mountains of North Carolina, where his brothers had worked. Hannah Elizabeth Watson Lawrence Harve's first child, Fred Gibson When he first arrived at the logging camp he was the cook's helper. He had to prepare the meals and clean the mess hall. Later, he graduated to logging with the horses. He sent all the money he could to his mother back home to help her with the Meeler children. Around 1926, Harve must have returned to Banks for a visit. He ended up having a relationship with one of Chub and Hannah Lawrence's daughters, Dicey Jane Lawrence. She was also the sister of his brother's wife, Cora Jane Lawrence (John Henry's wife). Harve and Dicey had a child together named Fred, but Dicey did not tell anyone that the child was Harve's and made people believe that Fred was the son of Owen Gibson, Dicey's soon to be husband. The relationship was later confirmed after Ancestry DNA testing of Fred's son, Eddie Randall Gibson. Harve at 19 years old (1926) This was the same year Fred was born. A group picture of the Logging Camp Harve worked at. (Harve is not pictured here) In 1929, when Harve learned of his step father's passing, he sent his brother, John Henry, a letter from Tapoco NC, stating how he plans to come back home and take care of his mother while sending all the money he can for now. (I have this letter to this day, attached below). He agreed to stay and help raise the Meeler children like they were his own.​ ​ ​ Harve's 1928 letter from Tapoco NC when he was working for the logging camp- addressed to John Henry Deaton in Baldwin Route 1. He talks about the death of his step father, Jim Meeler. Living during the Prohibition era in the United States, a period marked by the nationwide ban on the production, sale, and distribution of alcoholic beverages. It was a time when speakeasies thrived, and individuals sought inventive ways to skirt the law to quench their thirst for alcohol. Harve was no exception, and he ventured into the world of bootlegging as a means of supporting his family and making ends meet. Harve used his knowledge of corn to make moonshine along with his brothers, John Henry Deaton, Robert Lee Deaton, and Charlie Meeler. ​ One day, the law caught up with the gang and the local sheriff, armed with information about bootlegging activities, embarked on a mission to apprehend him and put an end to the moonshining operation. Fueled by adrenaline and the fear of losing his freedom, Harve's actions took an unexpected turn. With a burst of strength, he managed to pull the sheriff's arm out of place trying to get away. Harve and Charlie would go on to serve six months in jail for trying to outrun the law. Robert Lee and John Henry Deaton managed to stay out of jail. A story told by Roy Gibson, son of Dicey and Owen Gibson: In 1929, Harve Deaton, John Henry Deaton, Owen Gibson, and Ralph Waters were all together. There was a dispute and Owen allegedly hit Ralph in the head with a 2x4 which fractured his skull and killed him. Owen went to prison for manslaughter. He tried to pin the murder on the Deaton's, in particular, John Henry. It is unsure if Owen was the real killer but he had no evidence that it wasn't him so he served several years for it and worked on the chain gang. Dicey (Left) and husband Owen Gibson (Right) The Death Certificate of Ralph Waters Harve (left) and his brother, John Henry (Right) 1932 Title Note where Harve and brother John Henry cosigned to pay for a mule. Harve (Right) and his Logging Buddy (Left) I believe the years of 1932-1942 were very hard for Harve. He lost three of his brothers within that ten year span. Reuben Deaton died in 1932, Robert Lee Deaton died in 1941, and his full brother, Jake Deaton, died in 1942. Harve (Left) and John Henry (Right) at brother Jacob Deaton's funeral Harve (standing in the back) with his mother and siblings Harve Deaton at a Smoke House at Isaac Deaton's home. First Marriage Harve married Bertie Mae Ausburn on February 21st, 1935 in Banks County, Georgia by Rev. Freeman Rice. He always said he picked her out for his wife when she was five years old and she cussed him out for it. ​ Bertie's mother, Mittie, was very sickly. She had two other children and she wasn't really able to care for them. Harve and Bertie would pick Mittie's children up on Sunday afternoon and keep them at their house until Friday afternoon so they could go to school. ​ Bertie got pregnant and they welcomed their first child, Martha Ann Deaton on July 5th 1941. Bertie's mother, Mittie, died the next day on July 6th 1941. Before she passed, she pulled Harve aside and asked him to take care of the children. Harve promised that he would take care of them as long as they would stay with him. ​ With WW2 approaching, Harve was 35 years old so he didn't have to go to war but he did go to work for R.J. Letourneau building military equipment. It took him several hours to get to work and he worked long hours to defend the country's freedom. ​ Other people worked the farm to keep it going while Harve was busy building military equipment. It was a sharecropper's farm. There was always someone staying with them that worked for a room. Everyday there was someone at the door asking Harve and Bertie for food; they were always fed leftovers and given water while sitting on Harve's backdoor step. ​ Bertie got pregnant once more but they had to bury their baby boy, Kenneth Wesley Deaton on March 13th 1943. He arrived too early and wasn't strong enough to make it. ​ Harry Wayne Deaton was born on July 29, 1946 and the war had ended. ​ ​ First Home in Georiga Harve and Bertie Mae Deaton lived in two homes in Georgia together, both in Baldwin and only a few miles apart. The first home was right on the creek where Daniel Deaton, Harve's nephew, showed me where he, Boyd Jackson, Lucille Jackson, and Earl Deaton used to come play and try to "drown ducks". I pictured these areas in 2024. This was the location where Martha Ann Deaton was born. Coordinates to the creek: 34.42748° N, 83.45566° W Coordinates to possible house location: 34.42635° N, 83.45549° W ​ ​ Second Home in Georiga The second home was on Taylor Road a half mile from Damascus Church Cemetery. These images on the top were taken in 2010 by my grandmother. Coordinates to the home: 34.43498° N, 83.44093° W ​ In 2023, I revisited the home place and retook some more images. Fireplace still standing in 2023. Jack Peyton In August of 2023, a seemingly routine decision led to a profound discovery that would reshape the understanding of one family's history. It all began when my mother decided to take a DNA test through Ancestry.com. Little did we know that the results of this test would unravel a hidden chapter in our family's past. As the test results arrived, we were met with a shock that left us bewildered. Contrary to our expectations, the DNA analysis revealed that we did not share any DNA connection with the "Deaton" family, despite our longstanding belief that we were firmly rooted in this ancestral line. Even more bewildering was the fact that we shared 0% DNA with many of my grandmother Martha Ann Deaton's first cousins, individuals who were assumed to be close relatives. We were at a loss for what to make of this unexpected turn of events. However, as we delved deeper into the test results, another name emerged as a prominent clue. We noticed a significant number of first cousin matches with individuals bearing the surname "Peyton." The name struck a chord for my mom and I because we have a photograph from 1941 depicting a man named Jack Peyton holding a baby Martha Ann. ​ Jack Peyton holding Martha Ann Deaton With newfound determination, we embarked on a quest to uncover the truth behind the connection between the Deaton and Peyton families. Our journey led us to uncover a crucial piece of evidence in the form of Jack Peyton's World War II registration card. It revealed that Jack Peyton had been the farmhand for Harve Deaton, Martha Ann's father, back in 1940. The card listed Bertie Mae Deaton, Martha Ann's mother, as someone who would always know Jack Peyton's address. With this newfound information in hand, our quest led us to the last living link in the chain, Jack Peyton's only son, Ronald Peyton. At the age of 77, Ronald was surprised to receive our call, as he had always known about the existence of a half-sister living in North Carolina. However, he had never known her name or her identity. Our call offered him the long-awaited answers he had sought for many years. To confirm the connection, we convinced Ronald Peyton to take a DNA test. The results of the test confirmed our suspicions, as it revealed that he shared 9% DNA (634 centimorgans) with my mother, which is consistent with the genetic relationship of a half-uncle. It became increasingly clear that Jack Peyton was likely the biological father of Martha Ann Deaton. The revelation of this hidden family secret left us with a profound sense of empathy for Martha Ann and Harve Deaton, who possibly lived their entire lives without ever discovering the truth. The circumstances of how Bertie Mae Deaton became pregnant by Jack Peyton remain unknown, buried in the annals of time, and lost to history. Meeting Molly Runningwolf Harve's brother Reuben died in 1932 after getting hit in the head. It was speculated that the son of Molly Runningwolf was the one who did it; however, Molly Runningwolf took the blame and served 21 months in prison for it. ​ In 1947, Harve came to get answers to find out who really killed his half brother. Molly Runningwolf had thought he had come to kill her. In reality, he just wanted the truth. Molly begged him to believe her that it was not her or her son, but that it was a member of the Swayney family who did it. ​ The meeting ended cordially. Harve brough along his wife Bertie Mae, children Fred, Martha Ann, Wayne, and his wife's half brother Boyd Jackson. ​ In the interview below, there is a audio recording mentioning her time in prison. Click here to listen to Molly Runningwolf interview The family eventually decided to move to Cramerton, North Carolina on March 10th, 1950. Harve, had already been working in the Mill there because farming was not productive enough to support a family of four. While working in the mill, he was living with his friend, Garnett Smith. Working in the mill was simply not for him, he enjoyed being outside and not cooped up inside a mill all day long. He was eventually offered a job to be the caretaker for the Cramer farm and a house came with the job; therefore, Bertie and the children made the full time move to Cramerton. Their house address was 583 Mountain Road, Cramerton NC. This was the first house Harve had with a bathroom, running water, and electricity. Harve was working directly for Rebecca Cramer, Stewart Cramer's third wife. Stewart Cramer was the founder of Cramerton and lived in the famous Maymont Mansion on the top of Cramer mountain. Harve took care of Rebecca's land, surrounding the mansion. He often reported the farm's morning news while she was sitting on the toilet. ​ Working for the Cramers The Maymont House in August 2023. The home of Rebecca Cramer, where Harve Deaton oversaw the land. Harve with his children at their home L to R: Martha Ann, Harve, Wayne, Bertie Mae at the Cramer Mansion A postcard from Rebecca Cramer addresed to Mr. and Mrs. Harve Deaton of Cramer Farms L to R: Boyd Jackson and Harve Deaton at the Cramer chicken house L to R: Wayne, Harve, Martha Ann at the Cramer Mansion L to R: Wayne Deaton, Boyd Jackson, Harve Deaton, Big John working in the Cramer hay fields L to R: Boyd Jackson and Harve Deaton at the Cramer Mansion L to R: Harve Deaton and Fred Gibson fishing in Cramerton L to R: Boyd Jackson and Harve Deaton in Cramerton Tragedies Sensitive Content When attending a church dinner at Friendship Baptist Church in Belmont, the family got red measles (also known as rubeola). Everyone had gotten better except for Bertie Mae. Her measles had turned into spinal meningitis. She laid in the hospital and went into a coma for 42 days. When she awoke, she was never quite right again and suffered physically and mentally. Albert Pressley Millen, the preacher at Friendship Baptist Church, was very helpful during these times. He and his wife, Nellie, came to visit on numerous occasions to help anyway they could. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Things simply did not get better for Bertie Mae. She had attempted suicide by attempting to drown herself in the lake but Harve was close enough to pull her out. Harve had to have her committed to Broughton Mental Hospital on May 3rd 1954. She was discharged on June 30th 1955. Two years later, on Sunday, June 16th 1957, she had gotten a .32 pistol and shot herself in the right temple. This is something Harve never got over for the rest of his life. He took Bertie's death very hard and never remarried again after that. Bertie and Harve on their porch Preacher Millen and Wife Nellie Killing of John Robert Kendrick Tragedy continued to loom. On February 13th, 1960, a man by the name of John Robert Kendrick was attempting to break into the screen door of the Cramerton home of Harve, Wayne, and Martha Ann Deaton. At about 1:30 am, Martha Ann altered her father that she heard a noise outside. Harve quickly got his .32 pistol and shot John Robert Kendrick in the head. Kendrick fell on the steps, the police were called and he was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital in Charlotte, where he was pronounced dead. Kendrick lived on 553 Baltimore Street, Cramerton. He had previously been sentenced to state prison on October 1953 for two counts of burglary, he was then transferred to Cherry Hospital in Goldsboro, North Carolina in April 1956 until being released. Harve was acquitted for the killing as it was an act of self defense. John Robert Kendrick's Death Certificate Later in Life In 1962, Harve moved to Midland to work at Jonas Pharr's farm for a short time until shortly later moving to Concord, North Carolina to work on Carl Propst's farm. ​ After suffering a stroke in the 1970s, Harve moved in with his daughter, Martha Ann, in Harrisburg. He also lived with his nephew, Earl Deaton for some time. In the 1980s, he lived with his son, Wayne. ​ Harve was evenutally moved to a nursing home and lived to 89 years old. He passed away on July 3rd 1997. Extra Stories about Harve Harve had always been known to be the jokester. His nephew, Lee Looney, told me the story that when he was young he had a date with this girl and on the way back home he had to travel through a graveyard. Harve felt something touch his back and he was sacred to death, he thought a ghost had came to visit him and was following him on the way back home. When Harve finally reached the house, he looked and found that it was an acorn that had fallen on top of him. ​ Harve's nephew, Eddie Daniel Deaton, said "Harve and Bertie Mae were something else". They would go on squirrel hunting trips together and Bertie would always come back with more squirrels killed. It would seem that Bertie Mae was the better shot. ​ Libby Gunter, a 1963 graduate of Cramerton High School, told me the story of how when she was little, she used to sneak up to the Cramer mansion with friends and Harve would find her and catch her every time . She said that he was always super nice and never got them in trouble with the police, even though they deserved it; instead, he brought them by the house and Bertie Mae brought them some punch to drink. ​ Roy Gibson, the son of Dicey Jane Lawrence and Owen Gibson, told me the story that when he was a kid, on Christmas, Harve gave him a toy shotgun. Harve put peanuts in it and shot Roy in the eye with it. He never forgot that. He told me that story 70+ years later. Harve's WW2 Draft Registration Card ​ In 1940, he was 6'2 193 pounds Every picture I have seen of Harve Wesley Deaton All Census Records Search for Ancestors | Deaton Family History Website Use the search bar below to find our ancestors! Deaton Family History Website | Family Tree https://deatonfamily.wixsite.com/my-site Deaton Family History Including hundreds of family members and their memories dating back to the early 1800s to present day About the Website Welcome to our family history website, a digital treasure trove that chronicles the rich tapestry of our lineage. Within these virtual pages, you'll discover a captivating journey through time, tracing the footsteps of our ancestors and the stories that have shaped us into who we are today. Immerse yourself in the vivid narratives of generations past, illuminated by a collection of meticulously preserved photographs, documents, and firsthand accounts. Explore the origins of our family name, uncover the tales of triumphs and trials that have been passed down through the ages, and gain insights into the cultural, historical, and geographical contexts that have molded our heritage. Whether you're a seasoned genealogist or a curious newcomer, our family history website invites you to bridge the gap between past and present, fostering a deeper connection to our roots and a greater appreciation for the incredible journey that has paved the way for us. Click Here To Search For Ancestors The importance of documenting our history It was important for me to acknowledge and account for both the joys and tragedies of the past, even when some may be inclined to ignore or omit them. These tragedies represent pivotal moments that have shaped not only the narrative of our family but also the broader historical context in which we exist. By acknowledging the darker chapters, we honor the resilience and strength displayed by our ancestors in the face of adversity. Moreover, a holistic representation of our family's history allows for a more authentic and complete understanding of who we are and where we come from. Ignoring these tragedies would be akin to omitting essential pages from a book; the resultant narrative would be incomplete and ultimately misleading. By openly addressing the challenges and hardships endured by our family members, we embrace a more truthful and compassionate perspective that not only fosters empathy but also underscores the importance of learning from the past to create a better future. Our ancestors endured some very difficult times; hopefully this will teach us that when times are hard, we should never give up. The best moments of our lives may still be upon us and future generations are counting on us. About me Me inside Odell Meeler's 1959 Ford Galaxie Fairlane 500 Hello! My name is Tyler Johnson. I was born on January 4th, 2002 in Charlotte, North Carolina. I am the son of Ray Johnson (son of Billy Ray Johnson and January Bass) and Angela Eury (daughter of James Phillip Eury and Martha Ann Deaton). Creating this family history website was born out of a profound desire to honor the legacy of our ancestors and preserve their remarkable stories for generations to come. My grandmother was the author of the Deaton Heritage Book . Her dedicated work in researching our family's history served as a wellspring of inspiration that ignited my own passion for this endeavor. Her tireless commitment to unearthing forgotten tales, meticulously cataloging old photographs, and piecing together the puzzle of our lineage showcased the power of connecting with one's roots. Her research not only enriched our understanding of our family's past but also instilled in me a profound appreciation for the significance of heritage. By continuing the work she started, I hope to pay homage to her memory while also forging a path that allows our entire family to delve into our shared history, fostering a stronger sense of unity and a deeper appreciation for the intricate threads that bind us together. Me in 2023 at the grave site of my great great grandfather, John Starlin Deaton Johnson Family in 2003 Me (Left) and brother Caleb (Right) Me (Right) and my grandmother, Martha Ann Deaton (Left) Contact Contact Questions? Concerns? Something I should add? Feel free to contact me! Submit Thanks for submitting! Blog | Deaton Family History Website All Posts Search Check back soon Once posts are published, you’ll see them here. Charlie Meeler | Deaton Family History Website Charlie Meeler August 21st 1912 – March 13th 1972 Charlie D. Meeler was born August 21, 1912 in Banks County, GA. He was the oldest child of Etta Davis Meeler and James W. Meeler. He farmed for a living. When Charlie was young, he would attend church with his father, James Meeler. His mother and siblings would attend Damascus Church. He was known to participate in bootlegging with his Deaton half-brothers in the 1930s. Father: James Meeler Mother: Etta Davis _ ______________________ Brother: Robert Meeler Sisters: Odell Meeler , Elsie Meeler Half Brother: John Henry Deaton , Jake Deaton , Harve Deaton ________________ ______ Top Row (L to R): Robert Meeler, Charlie Meeler Bottom Row (L to R): Etta Meeler, Elsie Meeler, Odell Meeler H e married Lonie Lillie Kelley on April 21 1946. They were married by B.S. Peyton in Homer, Georgia. Lonie's parents were Mary Blackburn and Thomas Kelley. They had two children, James Thomas Meeler and Elsie Louise Meeler, who were so precious to them. Charlie died March 13, 1972 and Lonie died April 7, 1974. They are buried at Lamar Church Cemetery, Banks County, GA. Lonie Lillie Kelley a nd Etta Meeler L to R: Odell Meeler, James Thomas Meeler, Etta Meeler, Charlie Meeler, Lonie Meeler Mary Louise Caudell | Deaton Family History Website Mary Louise Caudell July 17th 1872 – July 3rd 1913 Mary Louise Caudell was the husband to Benjamin Ausburn. She was born on July 17th 1872 in Banks County, Georgia. She had four children: Grant Wilmer Ausburn on September 17th 1889. Mittie Lou Ausburn on November 27th 1897. Essie Ausburn on March 17th 1904. Maud Lee Ausburn on November 17th 1908. She died on July 3rd 1913 for a currently unknown reason. ​ I have never seen a picture of Mary Louise Caudell but hoping to find one someday. Father: Wilborn Mickel Caudell Mother: Lucinda Edna Ausburn ________________ _______ Husband: Benjamin Ausburn Children: Grant Wilmer Ausburn, Mittie Lou Ausburn , Essie Ausburn, Maud Lee Ausburn All Census Records Mittie Lou Ausburn | Deaton Family History Website Mittie Lou Ausburn November 27th 1897 - July 6th 1941 Mittie Lou Ausburn was born to Benjamin Ausburn and Mary Louise Caudell on November 27th 1897 in Banks County, North Carolina. Mittie's mother, Mary, died when she was only 15 years old. Father: Benjamin Ausburn Mother: Mary Louise Caudell Brother: Grant Wilmer Ausburn Sisters: Essie Ausburn, Maud Ausburn _______________________ Child with Unknown Father: B ertie Mae Ausburn Husband: Claude Homer Jackson Children: Boyd Jackson , Lucille Jackson L to R: Benjamin Ausburn, Mittie Lou Ausburn, Essie Ausburn holding Bobbie Jean Lewallen Sensitive Content Unknown Father of Child When Mittie Ausburn was 18 years old, she had a daughter named Bertie Mae Ausburn; however, it is currently unknown who the father is. This was not talked about by the family and the information may have been lost through time. Mittie's great grandson told me that when Harve (Mittie's son-in-law) was in his older age and had suffered many strokes, he had brought it up and mentioned the name of the man. Unfortunately the name that was told to him has become a blur, he believes that Harve told him that it was a Charles "Langley" or "Langtree" or "Langford". Hopefully one day this will be revealed through lots of DNA testing. Marriage Mittie married Claude Homer Jackson on April 28th 1921. It was originally believed that they had three children together: Laurene Jackson born October 9th 1925, Boyd Jackson born August 11th 1929, and Lucille Jackson born May 1st 1932; however, after DNA testing, through the son of Lucille Jackson, it has been determined that Claude Jackson was not the biological father of Lucille, rather it was a man by the name of "Luther Huttie Watson". This was apparently known to a select few, including Boyd Jackson's son, Ronnie Jackson, who told me that Luther "Luke" Watson, was his biological grandfather and that his father, Boyd Jackson, always knew this. It is unknown why or how the relationship between Luther and Mittie came to pass, but it is speculated that Claude Jackson may have been unable to have children. On June 8th 1927, Mittie lost her two-year old baby Laurene due to Bronchiolitis. Top Row (L to R): Bently Lewallen holding Bobbie Jean Lewallen, Benjamin Ausburn, Bertie Mae Ausburn, Claude Homer Jackson Bottom Row (L to R): Benny Euline Lewallen, Mittie Lou Jackson, Lucille Jackson, Boyd Jackson Mittie's father, Benjamin, died on September 13th 1937. He developed sepsis due to cellulitis in the right axillary region. Mittie at her fathers funeral Claude Jackson and Mittie's granddaughter, Martha Ann Deaton Death Mittie Lou Ausburn Jackson died on July 6th 1941, the day after her first grandchild was born. She had a gastroenteritis infection. Before she died, she asked her son-in-law, Harve Deaton, to take care of her two children, Boyd and Lucille for her when she was gone. Harve told her he would take care of them for as long as they would stay with him. The Banks County Journal Newspaper from July 18th, 1941 Death Certificate of Mittie Ausburn Mittie's Headstone Every Picture I Have Seen of Mittie Lou Ausburn All Census Records Martha Ann Deaton | Deaton Family History Website Martha Ann Deaton July 5th 1941- November 13th 2020 Martha Ann at three and a half months old Growing Up in Banks Martha Ann Deaton was born in Banks County, Georgia on July 5th, 1941 to Harve and Bertie Mae Deaton. Growing up in the 1940s, nestled in the quiet landscapes of rural Georgia, my grandmother came of age in a world quite different from today's modern comforts. She fondly recounted stories of her upbringing in a simple wooden-built home. Her everyday life also bore witness to challenges that are now distant memories. The absence of indoor plumbing meant that a trip to the outhouse was a regular excursion. Toilet paper was a luxury not readily available in their wooden-built home, leading to an ingeniously simple alternative: newspaper. When Martha was twenty months old, her newborn brother passed away the day he was born. Kenneth Wesley Deaton arrived too early and wasn't strong enough to make it. He died on March 13th, 1943 and is buried at Damascus Cemetery. ​ She attended Grady Elementary School from 1947 to 1950, located in Homer, Georgia. The school is no longer standing. She also regularly attended Damascus Baptist Church with her family. At some point in the early 1940's, the family decided to move to a new house a little closer to the church. This house was the only one that Martha Ann said she remembered in Georgia. In 1946, Martha's younger brother was born, Wayne Harry Deaton. ​ Martha Ann Deaton with her aunt Lucille Jackson Top Row (L to R): Maud, Claude, Lucille Jackson Bottom Row: Harve holding Martha Ann Martha Ann's childhood home in Banks County, Georgia L to R: Martha Ann, Maud Ausburn, and Wayne Martha Ann with her dog L to R: Harve, Martha Ann, Bertie Mae Martha Ann in the early 1940s Father : Harve Wesley Deaton Mother : Bertie Mae Ausburn Brother : Wayne Harry Deaton ________________ _______ 1st Husband : Stephen Duncan Children : Daryll Duncan 2nd Husband : James Phillip Eury Children : Angela Eury 3rd Husband : George Nural Sheppard Martha Ann and father Harve Deaton Martha Ann Deaton feeding her little brother Wayne Bertie Mae holding Martha Ann in 1941 Recollections of Grady School written by Martha Ann Deaton "I loved Miss Margie Caudell. She taught me in the first grade. She was our neighbor and gave me a little feist dog when I was born. Her name was Penny and I had her until I was eleven years old. When the Damascus road flooded near the old covered bridge, Monroe Boling would bring "Miss Grace" on the tractor through the water and meet us on the other side. Then Dad and I would take her to school with us. In the middle of the classrooms stood wood heaters. One of the older boys that lived near the school always started a fire in both rooms. No one used the upstairs then. Miss Winnie taught grades 1, 2, and 3, and "Miss Grace" taught grades 4, 5, 6, and 7. Parents would bring veggies to school and Miss Winnie would cook them on the old wood heater. We brought a bowl and spoon from home so we had something hot to go with our bagged lunch. The big boys took turns drawing a cool fresh bucket of water." Martha Ann Deaton Grady School Picture Martha Ann Deaton with her aunt Lucille Jackson Grady School building in 2003 Mrs. Grace Boling Mrs. Winnie Brown Kessee Martha Ann Deaton with her grandaunt Maud Ausburn L to R: Lucille Jackson, Martha Ann Deaton, Geraldine Watson L to R: Harve, Wayne, Martha Ann, Bertie Mae L to R: Martha Ann, Bertie Mae, Wayne L to R: Martha Ann, Wayne, and Bobbie Jean Lewallen L to R: Lucille, Bobbie Jean, Bertie Mae, Harve, Martha Ann Martha Ann with her dogs (holding Penny) Jack Peyton In August of 2023, a seemingly routine decision led to a profound discovery that would reshape the understanding of one family's history. It all began when my mother decided to take a DNA test through Ancestry.com. Little did we know that the results of this test would unravel a hidden chapter in our family's past. As the test results arrived, we were met with a shock that left us bewildered. Contrary to our expectations, the DNA analysis revealed that we did not share any DNA connection with the "Deaton" family, despite our longstanding belief that we were firmly rooted in this ancestral line. Even more bewildering was the fact that we shared 0% DNA with many of my grandmother Martha Ann Deaton's first cousins, individuals who were assumed to be close relatives. We were at a loss for what to make of this unexpected turn of events. However, as we delved deeper into the test results, another name emerged as a prominent clue. We noticed a significant number of first cousin matches with individuals bearing the surname "Peyton." The name struck a chord for my mom and I because we have a photograph from 1941 depicting a man named Jack Peyton holding a baby Martha Ann. ​ The photo I have of Jack Peyton holding Martha Ann Deaton (Writing on the back by Bertie Mae Ausburn) With newfound determination, we embarked on a quest to uncover the truth behind the connection between the Deaton and Peyton families. Our journey led us to uncover a crucial piece of evidence in the form of Jack Peyton's World War II registration card. It revealed that Jack Peyton had been the farmhand for Harve Deaton, Martha Ann's father, back in 1940. The card listed Bertie Mae Deaton, Martha Ann's mother, as someone who would always know Jack Peyton's address. With this newfound information in hand, our quest led us to the last living link in the chain, Jack Peyton's only son, Ronald Peyton. At the age of 77, Ronald was surprised to receive our call, as he had always known about the existence of a half-sister living in North Carolina. However, he had never known her name or her identity. Our call offered him the long-awaited answers he had sought for many years. To confirm the connection, we convinced Ronald Peyton to take a DNA test. The results of the test confirmed our suspicions, as it revealed that he shared 9% DNA (634 centimorgans) with my mother, which is consistent with the genetic relationship of a half-uncle. It became increasingly clear that Jack Peyton was likely the biological father of Martha Ann Deaton. The revelation of this hidden family secret left us with a profound sense of empathy for Martha Ann and Harve Deaton, who possibly lived their entire lives without ever discovering the truth. The circumstances of how Bertie Mae Deaton became pregnant by Jack Peyton remain unknown, buried in the annals of time, and lost to history. Jack Peyton is on the far right. Also shown are friends Hoyt Moss and Carl Maney Jack Peyton WW2 picture; where he earned a purple heart The Move to Cramerton The family eventually decided to move to Cramerton, North Carolina on March 10th, 1950. Martha's father, Harve, had already been working in the mill there because farming was not productive enough to support the family. While working in the mill, he was living with his friend, Garnett Smith. He was eventually offered a job to be the caretaker for the Cramer farm and a house came with the job; therefore, Bertie and the children made the full time move to Cramerton. Martha was almost 9 years old and this was the first house she had lived in with a bathroom, running water, and electricity. Harve was working directly for Rebecca Cramer, Stewart Cramer's third wife. Stewart Cramer was the founder of Cramerton and lived in the famous Maymont Mansion on the top of Cramer mountain. Harve took care of Rebecca's land, surrounding the mansion. In the mornings, he would give a daily report to Mrs. Cramer, often when she was sitting on the toilet. Martha Ann and Wayne loved to go up to the mansion and visit. Every easter, Mrs. Cramer would make them Easter baskets and in return they would take Mrs. Cramer's brother, Mr. Tinkham, a dyed easter egg. Before Rebecca passed in 1957, she told Martha Ann she could have any piece of furniture from the mansion that she wanted. She picked a dining room chair, which is still in good condition today. Even though the quality of life had improved, life was still difficult for her and the family. On Christmas Eve of 1953, while attending a church dinner at Friendship Baptist Church in Belmont, the family got red measles (also known as rubeola). Everyone had gotten better except for mother, Bertie Mae. Her measles turned into spinal meningitis. She laid in the hospital and went into a coma for 42 days. When she awoke, she was never quite right again and suffered physically and mentally. This caused a lot of tension between Bertie Mae and her daughter, Martha Ann. She would frequently tell her daughter that she is her father's child and Wayne was hers. On January 16th 1957, the Charlotte Observer announced that Martha Ann and Tommy J Cabe were engaged. This is something she never told anyone so it was a shock to find this in the newspaper. I spoke to Tommy in August of 2023, he told me that they neutrally decided to break off the wedding due to them being too young at the time. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ There was a point where Martha had enough of Bertie being so mean to her. While Martha was ironing, Bertie had made a very rude remark to her. She had enough of it and told Bertie Mae off. This caused Bertie Mae to get a kitchen knife in attempt to attack her daughter. Martha said that she was so skinny and weak at that point due to her sickness, that she was able to simply take the knife away. Things did not get better for Bertie Mae; there were two instances where she had attempted suicide by drowning herself in the lake and Harve jumped in to pull her out. Harve had her committed to Broughton Mental Hospital on May 3rd 1954 and she was discharged on June 30th 1955. ​ 1957 was a difficult year for the Deaton family. The tension between Martha Ann and her mother had heightened. Martha Ann, seeking solace, would frequently leave the house at night, reportedly visiting acquaintances from Baltimore Village, an African-American community in Cramerton. When I visited Baltimore Village on December 6th, 2023, locals who had resided there in 1957 instantly recalled Martha Ann's presence. According to their recollections, she had accused three men of rape, leading to their imprisonment. The men were: Clifford Hill, Bobby Shanks, and AC Anderson. ​ On Sunday, June 16th 1957 at 9:15 pm, Martha's mother, Bertie Mae Deaton, got a .32 pistol and shot herself in the right temple outside of their garage. Martha was 15 years old at the time. Martha's brother Wayne saw Bertie Mae take the gun outside and she told him "Do your mother one last favor and go back inside the house.” Wayne rushed in and told Martha Ann and she replied "She isn't going to do it.” According to Roy Gibson (Fred Gibson's younger brother), a few weeks prior to her death, Bertie Mae wrote a letter and gave it to her half brother, Boyd Jackson. The letter read, "Make sure Blackie takes care of my flowers.” ​ An African-American man whose father worked for Carothers Funeral Home, was supposed to be cleaning the hearse but instead took it out for a joy ride. This man and his four friends offered Martha Ann and her friend a ride. There was a routine traffic check but the man driving did not stop. This led to a high speed car chase with Martha Ann and her friend in the car. They ended up getting into a wreck. Martha Ann was 16 years old at the time while her friend was 15; therefore, Martha Ann was charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor. She was then sent off to training school. The town of Cramerton assumed that Martha and her friend were dating those black men. The local Ku Klux Klan heard about this and burned a cross in the Deaton's yard. Libby Gunter (Cramerton Local), vividly recalls that day. She told me that her dad was good friends with Martha's father, Harve Deaton, and when her father heard the news, he went to show him support; however, upon arrival in his truck with his daughter Libby, the KKK threatened to kill them if they didn't leave. Libby said it was the biggest cross she had ever seen and that the it was a very frightening moment. Sensitive Content Martha and cousin at the New Cramerton Home Charlotte Observer- January 16th 1957 Martha Ann Deaton (Left) and her friend Betty Louise Smith (Right) Martha Ann standing in the front yard of the Deaton household in Cramerton Page 1 of The Gastonia Gazette December 7th 1957 Martha Ann on the front steps of the Deaton household in Cramerton L to R: Martha Ann Deaton, Odell Meeler, Elsie Meeler Martha and Wayne at the Maymont Mansion Pool L to R: Wayne, Bertie Mae, Martha Ann Deaton Martha Ann Deaton on a Bison Martha and Wayne at Kings Mountain U.S. Monument Tragedy continued to loom. On February 13th, 1960, a man by the name of John Robert Kendrick was attempting to break into the screen door of the Cramerton home of Harve, Wayne, and Martha Ann Deaton. At about 1:30 am, Martha Ann alerted her father that she heard a noise outside. Harve quickly got his .32 pistol and shot John Robert Kendrick in the head. Kendrick fell on the steps, the police were called and he was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital in Charlotte, where he was pronounced dead. Kendrick lived at 553 Baltimore Street with his mother, Sallie, and step-father, Jessie Williams. Prior to this incident, John Robert Kendrick was sentenced to state prison on October 1953 for two counts of burglary. He was then transferred to Cherry Hospital in Goldsboro, North Carolina in April 1956 until being released. Harve was quickly acquitted for the killing as it was an act of self defense. This is something Martha Ann never spoke about. It is believed she was partly traumatized by this and scared it would bring shame to the family. According the residents in Baltimore Village, they believed that John Robert Kendrick was drunk at the time and had just wandered to the wrong house that night. They also mentioned he had serious mental problems. Gastonia Gazette February 13th 1960 Page 1 Martha Ann in front of her Cramerton Home Duncan Marriage Martha Ann married her first husband, Stephen Benjamin Franklin Duncan, on December 8th 1962 in South Point Township, Gaston, North Carolina. Martha Ann was 21 years old, Stephen was 19. The best man was Harold Wayne Hanna (1931-2010). The matron of honor was Betty Jean Davenport Best (1928-2009). Mary Bollick Stowe Dellinger was the organist. ​ Stephen became abusive and gave Martha a black eye on two different occasions. It is said that after the first one, Martha's father, Harve, gave him a warning. But after it happened again, Stephen was ran off at the end of Harve's pistol. Before the divorce finalized, Martha welcomed her first child, Daryll, on December 11th 1963. Martha and her son Daryll moved back in with her father, Harve, who was living in Concord at the time. Stephen and his father, Manus Duncan Martha and Stephen's mother, Lillian Odell Duncan The Gastonia Gazette- December 9th 1962 Page 23 L to R: Mary Bollick Stowe (Organist), Albert Pressley Millan (Preacher), Harve Deaton, Martha Ann Deaton, Stephen Duncan, Betty Jean Best, Harold Hanna, Wayne Deaton, David Ross Dellinger (Singer) Bridal shower hosted by Roxie Clark (A friend of Martha's who worked at the beauty shop with her) Stephen and Martha at the Wedding Martha Ann with son, Daryll Duncan Harve Deaton with daughter Martha Ann Harve Deaton with Grandson, Daryll Duncan Eury Marriage One day after experiencing some issues with the sewing machine in the hallway of her fathers Concord farm house, Martha Ann, called Sears for a repair service. A man showed up in a Sears & Roebuck repair van. This man was James Phillip Eury. After quickly fixing the sewing machine, he asked if it would be acceptable for him to take Martha out on a date sometime. Martha agreed. ​ When the first date was coming up, it just so happened that Martha's son Daryll, got sick and threw up all over the living room rug right before he got there. Martha wasn't going to go but her father Harve said, "Sis, I'll look after the boy, go out and have fun.” The rest was history as James and Martha were perfect for one another. They got married on December 27th 1968 in Cabarrus County, North Carolina. ​ Things were going well and James bought a piece of land to build a house on. James and Harve had already started clearing the land to build, but when Martha got pregnant, they decided to buy a house already built at 129 Autumn Lane, Harrisburg, North Carolina. James and Martha welcomed their first daughter, Angela Renee Eury, on August 13th 1970. They also decided to accept a foster child into their home, Nora Biggers. The Eury's had a full house! ​ ​ L to R: Wayne, Daryll, Harve, Martha, James The Wedding of James Eury and Martha Ann Deaton The year was 1975 and James started to feel very sick. After going to the hospital, the doctors decided to do an exploratory surgery. During the surgery, there were complications and James went into a coma. James never woke up and died on November 17th 1975 from Hepatic Failure. Martha Ann was single yet again but this time with two children to care for. Top (L to R): Martha Eury, James Eury Bottom (L to R): Nora Biggers, Daryll Duncan, Angela Eury Martha and James with newborn daughter, Angela Eury. Voicemail of Martha Ann Deaton Martha Ann Deaton Eury with husband, James Phillip Eury Final Marriage and Later Years Getting over the death of James Eury was quite difficult for Martha and the family. He was a good man that was loved by everyone that knew him. Martha had plenty to occupy herself through the difficult times. She was working to support her two children and also volunteering on the Harrisburg rescue squad. While on the rescue squad, she met a man named Joe Miller Morris. He was born July 3rd 1929. Joe and Martha started dating and things became very serious until Martha decided to break it off before marrying. The children were devastated because they really liked him. It is unknown the reason for breaking it off but it may have been because she felt he had a mean streak to him. He always drove really fast in the ambulance and slung Martha around in the back. Joe ended up dying just four years later. ​ Martha then began dating the captain of the rescue squad, George Nural Sheppard. He was born December 21st 1931 in Forest City, North Carolina. They got married on March 17th 1977. They were together for 41 years until his passing in 2018. ​ ​ Martha in the Rescue Squad Yearbook Now that Martha's family was stable, I wish I could say all the trials and tribulations were over; however, in early 1997, Martha discovered that she had stage four colon cancer. Around the same time, her father, Harve, passed away. Harve was buried on her birthday. A few years later, her younger brother, Wayne, died of heart failure. Despite all this, she was able to beat cancer and continue to persevere through the difficult times. I would like to say that the next 20 years were the best years of her life (2000-2020). This always reminds me that when you are upon bad times, sometimes the best thing to do is to wait it out. The bad times will pass and the best years of your life may still be ahead of you. Martha Ann Deaton died on November 13th 2020 near the beaches of North Carolina in Onslow County. She authored cookbooks and genealogy books. She loved crafts, cooking, canning, gardening, and sewing. Martha Ann was adored by her children and grandchildren. She will always be remembered as an exceptionally selfless and giving person. She is buried at the Salisbury National Cemetery beside her husband, George. George and Martha Sheppard Martha and George Sheppard celebrate Christmas with their children and grandchildren Every picture I have of Martha Ann Deaton All Census Records Etta Icie Davis | Deaton Family History Website Etta Icie Davis 10 May 1888 – 15 February 1970 Etta Icie Davis was born on May 10th 1888 to Leutica Carver and James Davis in Robbinsville, North Carolina. Leutica and James were never married but had two children, Etta and Cena. The 1890 census would have been helpful in determining where Etta lived between 1888-1891, but I presume, it was with her mother or maternal grandparents, Azor and Lucinda. Etta's son, Robert Meeler always said that she was raised by her grandprarents. ​ Starting in 1891, Etta lived with her mother and new step father, John Starlin Deaton. Upon this marriage, Etta gained four half-brothers: Reuben, David, Isaac, and Robert Lee. Etta in her middle age Deaton Marriage In December of 1900, Etta's mother, Leutica passed away, presumably due to child birth. That same year both her grandparents, Azor and Lucinda had also passed away. They were buried at Lone Oak Cemetery in Robbinsville. Leutica is also buried in Lone Oak Cemetery beside her infant child. ​ Etta's only full sibling, Cena, also passed away. Cena cause of death is currently unknown. It is suspected that she died sometime between 1900-1908. She was listed in the 1900 census and then suddenly disappears from all records with no named headstone. ​ Etta was now alone with no direct blood relatives besides her father who was not apart of her life. On February 14th 1902, had a child with her step-father, John Starlin Deaton. The child was born near Santeetlah Lake in Robbinsville, North Carolina. The doctor that helped deliver the baby was S.F. Howell. Etta named her first child, John Henry Deaton. ​ Etta had two more children, Jacob Leander Deaton on March 8th 1904 and Harve Wesley Deaton on November 14th 1907. Both born in Robbinsville, North Carolina. Fa ther: James Davis Mother : Leutica Carver Sister : Cena Davis Half Brothers : Reuben Deaton , David Deaton , Isaac Deaton , Robert Lee Deaton _______________________ First Husband : John Starlin Deaton Children : J ohn Henry Deaton , Jacob Leander Deaton , Harve Wesley Deaton Second Husband : James Meeler Children : Charlie Meeler , Odell Meeler , Robert Lee Meeler , Elsie Lucille Meeler _______________________ Dr. Swinfield F Howell making his rounds Leaving North Carolina In February of 1908, Etta's husband, John Starlin Deaton was shot and killed while clearing new land near Hanging Dog, North Carolina. It is unknown whether Etta was with him at the time but her half-brother, Isaac, followed the river thirteen miles to Tellico Plains to try and get help. John Starlin passed away and was buried in Garrett Cemetery while their was snow on the ground. ​ Etta was now by herself again having to care of a six year old, three year old, and three month old. Her half-brothers were also still teenagers at the time. ​ She decided to go someplace where she knew some people. John Starlin's sister, Martha Ann Wheeler, lived in Towns County, Georgia which was forty three miles away from where John Starlin was killed. Etta loaded everything they owned onto a wagon pulled by an ox and made the trip. With her was children, John Henry, Jacob Leander, Harve Wesley, and half-brothers David and Robert Lee Deaton. Isaac and Reuben decided to stay behind and fiend for themselves. The trip was a rough one and it took several months to arrive to the household of Martha Ann Wheeler. They often had to camp out over an open fire. Etta in Georgia Meeler Marriage Etta married James W. Meeler on August 22nd 1910. Rev. Robert Freeman Rice performed the ceremony. James Meeler was thirty years older than her, he was born in 1858. Meeler was a sharecropper and farmed on other peoples land. ​ Etta and James Meeler had five children, Charlie, in 1912. Odell in 1916, Annie Mae in 1920, Robert in 1923, and Elsie in 1927. ​ Etta lost her two year old daughter, Annie Mae, in 1922. ​ James Meeler was said to have been very mean to Etta's Deaton children. John Henry, Jake and Harve frequently huddled up outside the house in the chimney corner to stay warm. Etta would secretly slip them in through the window at night after Meeler had went to sleep. During the day they stayed in the barn and Etta had to slip them bread out of the house in her apron in order to feed them. Things continued to get worse and Etta had to start begging the neighbors to raise the older children. ​ James Meeler had cancer that had started to rot his eye out. During the night, he used a net to cover his face to keep the bugs off it. James Meeler died in 1928. ​ Times were hard for Etta once again, she was alone having to care for 4 children. She begged her son, Harve, to stay with her and help her with the crop instead of going back to the mountains and working in the logging camp. He agreed to stay until he got married in 1935. L to R: Etta, Robert, Elsie, Charlie, Odell Etta holding grandchild, Carole Meeler Later Years L to R: Eddie Daniel, Etta, Earl, Carrie, Martha Ann, Ophelia Etta and son, Robert Meeler Etta and daughter-in-law, Lonie Lilly Etta with granddaughter Carole, and great granddaughter Angelina. After the Meeler children was grown, Etta eventually moved in with her daughter Odell and her husband E.C. Gerrell. ​ ​ In 1970, Etta had Cervical cancer that had kept her in the bed sick. The last time her granddaughter, Martha Ann Deaton, saw her, she apologized for being in the bed. She said her grandchildren had never saw her in the bed sick before. ​ Etta passed away on Feburary 15th 1970. She was buried beside her daughter, Annie Mae Meeler at Damascus Cemetery. Etta's Death Certificate Etta's Luggage Briefcase Stories Etta had no schooling. She could not read or write. My grandmother, Martha Ann Deaton, said she always had to listen to the news on the radio everyday at noon when she would go and visit her. She would always listen to the local obituaries this way. ​ Etta's grandson, Thomas E m ory Deaton told me that grandma Meeler would get so mad at him when he was playing in her fig tree. ​ Etta's granddaughter, Ophelia Deaton told me that when Etta was sick and near the end of her life, Ophelia gave Etta a kiss on her cheek, and Etta responded with "Don't you get enough sugar at home?" ​ Etta's grandson, Lee Looney described Etta as a "pistol" and that he would go eat dinner with her all the time. ​ Etta Meeler in the 1960s Etta and granddaughter, Carole Meeler Etta at her well Etta and grandsons, Lee and Edwin Looney Etta and Pearlie M. Armour Wiley Every Photo I have seen of Etta Meeler All Census Records Jacob Leander Deaton | Deaton Family History Website Jacob Leander Deaton March 8th 1904 – April 23rd 1942 Jacob Leander Deaton was the second son of John Starlin Deaton and Etta Icie Davis Deaton. He was born March 8, 1904 in Graham County, NC. After John Starlin Deaton was killed Etta Deaton and her family lived with James and Martha Ann Wheeler in Towns County, GA for a few years. Etta Deaton married James Meeler and there were hard times. Etta’s children from the Deaton family were sent out to work for other families. Jacob stayed with Ulysses and Rhilla Martin where he worked in the cotton gin. John Deaton, Jacob’s brother, also stayed with this family. He farmed most of his life in Banks and Franklin Counties. He also worked on the WPA and cut cross ties in the winter for the railroad. He married Bertha Cornelia Smith on August 24, 1924. Bertha Smith was born on September 26, 1907 in Hart County, GA. Her parents were Earl and Millie Mae Saylors Smith. They had six children: Carrie Mae, Earl Starlin, Eddie Daniel, Ophelia Henrietta, Thomas Emory, and Ernest Lee Deaton. When he was going to the hospital with pneumonia he told Carrie, “Sis, you are the oldest. Take care of the little ones”. He was not to come home again for he died of kidney failure on April 24, 1942. He is buried in Fairfield Cemetery in Demorest, GA. Carrie took this challenge seriously. She went to Belmont, NC to stay with her Grandmother Smith. She lied about her age and got a job in the cotton mill. She sent her mother every penny that she did not need to live on. Fa ther : John Starlin Deaton Mother : Etta Icie Davis Brothers : Harve Wesley Deaton , John Henry Deaton Half Brothers : Reuben Deaton , David Deaton , Isaac Deaton , Robert Lee Deaton , Charlie Meeler , Robert Lee Meeler Half Sisters : Odell Meeler , Elsie Meeler ____________________ Wife : Bertha Cornelia Smith Children: Carrie Deaton, Earl Deaton, Eddie Daniel Deaton, Ophelia Deaton, Thomas Emory Deaton, Ernest Lee Deaton Jacob "Jake" Deaton L to R: Jake, Carrie, Bertha Jake and wife Bertha Later in Life Jake was six feet seven inches tall. He was a hard working man who taught his children to work hard. On Sundays he liked to play with the children. He made toys for the children using tall round trees to saw wheels and using hot iron rods to burn holes in the wheels. With these wheels he made wagons, wheelbarrows and cars. The family was very happy. He liked to rabbit hunt and fish. He loved his family. On his birthday his wife always made him a huge chicken pie. All of his family would come by to see him that day. When any of his brothers visited the children would gather around to hear all the jokes, hunting tales, and laughter.​ Jake holding niece, Ruth Deaton L to R: Eddie Daniel, Thomas Emory, Earl, Jake, Bertha, Ernest, Ophelia, Carrie Jake Deaton Carrie Deaton's Recollections of her Father Death One day when plowing the fields, Jake hit a rock and the plow came back and hit him in the chest. As a result of this, he had to go to the hospital with pneumonia and he told his daughter, Carrie, “Sis, you are the oldest. Take care of the little ones”. He was not to come home again for he died on April 24, 1942. He is buried in Fairfield Cemetery in Demorest, GA. Carrie took this challenge seriously. She went to Belmont, NC to stay with her Grandmother Smith. She lied about her age and got a job in the cotton mill. She sent her mother every penny that she did not need to live on. Location of where Jake Deaton was plowing that caused his death. Coordinates: 34.60791° N, 83.63753° W Homes Jake Deaton's Baldwin home in the 1930s. Coordinates: 34.42173° N, 83.46785° W ​ Jake Deaton's house was in location of white car pictured. Oak tree was still there and Jake once killed a hen in the same oak tree pictured on the right and ate it for dinner. Jake Deaton's Baldwin home in the 1940s. Coordinates: 34.60791° N, 83.63753° W​ ​ Jake Deaton's house was in location of red circle. This was his last home and the land in which he died. Every Photo I have seen of Jake Deaton All Census Records Previous 1 2 3 4 5 Next