Raymond Ephriam Deason Jr., age 76, of Eddyville, KY, passed away on Monday, June 23, 2025, at Ray and Kay Eckstein Hospice Care Center in Paducah, KY.
Raymond was born on November 25, 1948, in Elkton, KY, to the late Raymond Sr. and Mable Latham Deason. Raymond found his calling in the service of the Lord. He dedicated his life to serving as a United Methodist Minister, earning the respect and admiration of congregations at Bethel and O’roark United Methodist in Russellville, KY, Leigh Chapel, and Peolia in Albany, KY. His ministry extended to Rosewood, Myers Chapel, and Jernigan’s Chapel in Muhlenberg County, KY, and he nurtured faith communities at Glenns Chapel and Chestnut Oak in Eddyville, KY. Raymond’s compassionate leadership and steadfast devotion culminated at Salem United Methodist in Salem and Providence United Methodist in Elkton, KY, where his guidance was a beacon of light for many.
Raymond’s love for music was a cornerstone of his life. He found enjoyment and praise in the words of Southern Gospel Music. His entrepreneurial spirit shone through in his personal venture, a construction business where he found joy in building and remodeling homes. His skilled hands not only built structures but also forged lasting bonds in the community. Raymond was as comfortable holding a fishing pole as he was a hammer, or hymnal all while singing praise to his Lord.
Survivors include his wife of 20 years, Thalia McCormick Deason; daughters, Angie (Pat) Gibbs, Bobbie Chewning, Randa (Chris) Putnam, Rachelle (Steve) Boggess, Julie (Lee) Jenkins, Tonia Cardwell; sons, Ray (Melinda) Deason, Anthony (Cory) Deason, Michael Gibbs, Darrell (Rebecca) Wheeler, Justin (Tara) Cardwell and Heath (Dawn) Cardwell ; sisters, Wanda Gilkey, Mary Ackerknecht, Janice Deason; brother, Arvil Ray Deason; 38 grandchildren, 42 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Raymond is preceded in death by his daughter, Lisa Loving; three sisters; and six brothers.
Visitation for Raymond will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM and on Sunday, June 29, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Lakeland Funeral Home in Eddyville.
Funeral services will be held on Sunday, June 29, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Lakeland Funeral Home with Bro. Steve Tinsley and Bro. Marty Robinson officiating. Burial will follow in Kuttawa Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made in Raymond’s memory to The Ray and Kay Eckstein Hospice Care Center: 1530 Lone Oak Rd, Paducah, KY 42003
Lakeland Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
