Loretta Fay Deaton

Loretta Fay Deaton, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister-in-law, and friend, went Home to be with the Lord on July 29, 2026 at the Friends Care Center with loving family by her side. Loretta was born on August 19, 1935, in West Liberty, Kentucky, to Victor and Nannie (Gevedon) Elam. Her early years were filled with the warmth and love of a close-knit family, and those values would guide her throughout her life.

A proud graduate of Fairborn High School, Class of 1954, Loretta was known for her spirited involvement in school life. She was active in sports--softball, field hockey, and basketball—and shared her school spirit as a baton twirler and majorette with the marching band. These formative experiences instilled in her a sense of teamwork, leadership, and joy that she carried into adulthood.

Loretta embarked on a fulfilling professional journey in Fairborn, where she retired from M & M Savings and Loan, delighting in the opportunity to serve her fellow Fairbornites and their families. Never one to shy away from hard work, she returned to the workforce, eventually retiring a second time from Deaton Enterprises. Through her career, she was known for her dedication, integrity, and kindness.

Faith played a central role in Loretta's life. She became a cherished and active member of First Baptist Church of Fairborn in 1962. Over the years, she devoted her talents to various ministries—teaching girls Sunday School, guiding the children's mission group “Sunbeams,” serving on the finance committee, and acting as treasurer of her Sunday ladies class. Loretta’s church family was deeply important to her, and she made lasting friendships through her service and fellowship.

Loretta was also a woman of many interests and talents. She delighted in growing beautiful flowers in her yard, which brought color and joy to her home. A dedicated sports fan, she cheered passionately for the Cincinnati Bengals, Ohio State Buckeyes football, Kentucky Wildcats basketball, and followed all Fairborn High School teams. Loretta was an avid card player, relishing friendly competition with friends and loved ones. Her culinary skills were well known among family, and she treasured opportunities to travel, visit relatives, and explore new places.

Above all, Loretta’s greatest accomplishment and source of happiness was her family. She devoted as much time as possible to her children, grandchildren, and her great-grandson, nurturing bonds that will endure for generations to come. Her gentle spirit, wisdom, and unwavering love leave an indelible legacy.

She is survived by her high school sweetheart and devoted husband of 70 years, Franklin Deaton; her daughters, Teresa Hill and husband Geoffrey, Pamela Lamb; grandchildren J.T. Hicks and wife Kelly, Amy Lamb, Christopher Lamb, and Benjamin McKinney; great-grandson Eli Hicks; and sister-in-law Malinda Elam. Loretta’s loss is also deeply felt by a wide circle of friends and her cherished church family.

She was preceded in death by her father, Victor Elam; mother, Nannie (Gevedon) Elam; father-in-law, Edward Deaton; mother-in-law, Mary Deaton; brother, William Travis Elam; and nephew, Lamont Elam.

Family, friends, and all whose lives Loretta touched are invited to remember and celebrate her remarkable life at the First Baptist Church of Fairborn, 1167 Highview Drive, Fairborn, OH 45324. Visitation will take place on Saturday August 8, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., immediately followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m., Pastor Matt Williams officiating.  Burial will follow at the Byron Cemetery.

Loretta Fay Deaton’s legacy of faith, service, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made Hospice of Dayton -or- First Baptist Church of Fairborn.

Arrangements in care of Belton-Stroup Funeral Home, Fairborn.