On June 14th, Linda Hensley Deyton, age 77, was reunited with her best friend and partner in this life, Claude. Since his passing, she had missed him dearly and longed for the day when they would be together again. Even so, she fought valiantly to remain with her dear daughter, Traci, and her tiny companion, Bear. Although her determination was sure and her efforts tremendous, it became evident that the time had come to be with Claude once more.
Linda was born to Eugene and Pauline Gibbs Hensley and when she was three, they welcomed another daughter, Loretta, into their family. Linda was adamant that the new baby be called “Jackie” after a close childhood friend, and she refused to call her anything else. She further insisted that others call Loretta by this name and, to this day, “Jackie” still answers to both.
Linda was the granddaughter of Alex and Roberta Marsh Hensley and Bascomb and Annie Westall Gibbs. She frequently reminisced about her youth and the countless hours spent at the Annie Gibbs’ swimming hole in Hamrick and fishing up and down the banks of the South Toe River. She served as her Big Pop’s (Alex) shadow and whatever he was doing, she was doing as well. The special bond between Linda and her grandparents and her time spent with them helped to shape the person she would become, and she was forever grateful for their presence in her life.
High school introduced Linda to basketball and other sports in which she found her passion. It was her love of sports and her innate competitive nature that motivated her to become a Physical Education teacher and coach. As a result, Linda attended Appalachian State University where she received her undergraduate degree.
Linda met Claude during her freshman year in college, thanks to Jackie. She often spoke of his kindness toward her as one of the reasons why he quickly found a place in her heart. However, after approximately one year, he was drafted to serve in the Vietnam War. Although Claude wanted to marry prior to his departure, Linda feared this could endanger him even more while he was in combat. For years, she rushed to the Appalachian State library day after day, praying she would not find his name among the list of soldiers that had lost their lives. She also wrote to him daily, even though it may be difficult to find something new to say, but she felt it was imperative that he knew she was praying for his safe return and longing for the day they would be reunited. After much anticipation and worry, Claude safely returned and they married the day before her graduation from Appalachian State.
Shortly afterward, Linda began her career and her devotion to education. She first served as a Physical Education teacher and coach at Enka High School, then returned to Yancey County where she obtained her credentials to teach elementary school. For many years, she taught 2nd grade at Clearmont Elementary where she took her role very seriously. She knew that the ability to read was paramount to student success, both academically and in life, so she worked diligently to ensure her students were able to do so before leaving her classroom. Later, upon her retirement, she continued to tutor individual students as well as small groups in the school setting, as she loved nothing more than to help others, especially children. Through her generosity, many children were afforded food, clothing, and basic necessities without knowing from where or from whom it came.
After several years exploring and traveling together, Linda and Claude were blessed with their daughter, Traci. Linda watched proudly as Traci grew from a young child into a beautiful lady. She was happiest when Traci was happy and when Traci married Joel McMahan, Linda knew Traci had found someone to love and protect her just as much as her mother and father.
Linda’s love for the outdoors, as well as her love for Claude, prompted her to join him on the farm. On summer days, one could see them mowing their property in an effort to keep it neat and tidy. Together, they raised tobacco, as well as lettuce crops and, for many years, the fruits of their labors adorned a portion of Highway 80 South in the form of colorful gladiolas. Assisting them in this endeavor were Traci and Joel. The four of them worked harmoniously to provide this service to the community – a service which was sorely missed when their health made it impossible to continue.
Linda was an avid and faithful Tarheels fan. She loved to read, nurture her beautiful flowers, and laugh with others. She was quick to respond, always with a witty or hilarious comment. The strength she possessed was astonishing and she served as a support for countless others.
In addition to her parents, grandparents, and husband, Linda was preceded in death by brothers-in-law: Lloyd, Boyd, Ben, and Clyde Deyton, and sisters-in-law: Caroline Deyton, Genevive Deyton, and Sharon Deyton, who was also her dear and valued friend.
Surviving are her daughter and son-in-law, Traci and Joel McMahan; her sister, Loretta “Jackie” Gillespie; special niece and friend, Miranda Elkins; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Billie Jo Mace Deyton, Betty Jane Deyton, Hope Hensley (Bobby), Clarence Deyton (Doris), Johnny Deyton, Helen Hughes (Mike), Donnie Deyton (Sandy) and Doris Willis (Jim). Numerous other nieces, nephews, friends, neighbors, and former students join in the mourning of her passing, as well as her little Yorkie, Bear, who provided constant companionship during the most difficult time of her life.
Linda will be laid to rest alongside Claude in the Cecil Deyton Family Cemetery on Charlie Deyton Road in Green Mountain. The graveside service will take place on Saturday, June 17th, at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Stanley McMahan officiating. Cathy Long, another niece for whom Linda was a rock, will deliver the eulogy.
Linda and Claude were a team in every sense of the word. As such, it is only fitting that the Claude C. Deyton Memorial Scholarship be renamed the Claude and Linda Deyton Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship honors a senior in the FFA program at Mountain Heritage High School who wishes to continue his or her education in agriculture. Should you wish to donate in Linda’s memory, please send your donation to: Yancey County Schools, Attn: Finance, PO Box 190, Burnsville, N. C. 28714 Please note that your donation should benefit the Claude and Linda Deyton Scholarship Fund. To send online condolences, please visit our website at www.yanceyfuneralservice.com.
