John Broddus Deaton Sr., 80, of Bohannon, Mathews County, formerly of Manakin, Goochland County, died peacefully on Nov. 13, 2012.

Jack was born on March 14, 1932 in Richmond to Cordelia and Jesse Deaton of Mechanicsville. Beverley, Jack’s wife of 49 years, predeceased him Aug. 11, 2007.

Jack is survived by their three sons, Marc, Stuart and wife Lisa, and John and wife Sally; four grandchildren, Ruth, Jesse, Jean and Hank; his sister, Nancy; his brothers, Reid and Doug. He was predeceased by his brother, J.D. He is also beloved and remembered by Molly Longest, his special friend. Last, but certainly not least, he is survived by five devoted family dogs, Dixie, Nellie, Homer, Cowboy and Gus.

Jack was a graduate of Virginia Tech, and served in the U.S. Army. He founded Old Dominion Timber, LLC, and was a self-employed forester in the timber industry until the time of his death. He lived life on his own terms, always optimistic that things would work out in the end. Most importantly, he was a dedicated and caring friend to those he knew, quick to lend a helping hand. Interment will be at a private ceremony.

A memorial service was held on Saturday, Nov. 17 at 2 p.m. at the Emmanuel United Methodist Church on East River Road in Bohannon, Va.

The family is also planning to celebrate Jack’s life at a service to be held in March of 2013, with more details forthcoming.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to the Mathews Volunteer Fire Department, Station #2; (4542 East River Rd., Bohannon, Va. 23021; 804-725-7594), the Memorial Fund of Emmanuel United Methodist Church (P.O. Box 628, North, Va. 23128; 804-725-9855), Central United Methodist Church (P.O. Box 297, Mathews, Va. 23109; 804-725-2832), or Manakin Company 1 of the Goochland County Volunteer Fire & Rescue Association (180 River Road West, Manakin, Va. 23103; 804-784-3277).

Arrangements by Hogg Funeral Home and Crematory, Gloucester Point.