Ira Don Deason

Ira Don Deason, 59, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, December 19, 2011. Donnie was at his home with his family by his side. A celebration of his life will be held at Calvary Episcopal Church in Cleveland, Mississippi on Wednesday, December 21 at 1 p.m. with Reverend Bailey Norman. Visitation will be held at Ray Funeral Home on Tuesday, December 20, 2011 from 5 to 7 p.m. Donnie was born on March 5, 1952 in Borger, Texas. He graduated from Cleveland High School in which he just recently enjoyed his 40th class reunion. He worked for the US Postal Service serving as postmaster. Donnie was an avid outdoorsman; he enjoyed camping, kayaking, hunting, searching for artifacts, and motorcycles. He enjoyed God's creation and spent many hours on the Mississippi River and in the Arkansas outdoors with his family and friends. Donnie was a passionate person who took pleasure in the small things of life. He was an eloquent writer. He was a friend to the friendless. His wit, passion, and love of nature will be sorely missed, yet he and his family believe the promises of God. They look forward to that day that they will be reunited to enjoy each other forever. Donnie was preceded in death by his parents, Milburn and Sybil Deason. He enjoyed a full life with his wife, Colonel Anita Deason, and his daughters, Jennifer Deason Neumann (Erik) of New Orleans and Sarah Deason Aylward (Brig) of Pace. He also enjoyed stepson, Zach Long of Conway, Arkansas, sister, Peggy Cantu of Booker, Texas, (Juan) and brother, Larry Deason (Yolanda) of Sunnyvale, California. He brought great joy to his grandchildren, Oskar and Keri Evelyn Neumann. Donnie will also be missed by other loved ones, Mack and Renee LaMastus and their children, Mary Madeline and Gibson. Honorary Pallbearers include Mack Buchanan, Ken Cummins, Mickey Hawkins, Guy Holloway, Charles Lane, and Lawrence Murphy. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the American Cancer Society, Calvary Episcopal Church and the West Clinic Wings Foundation are appreciated.