Jerry Allan Deaton, age 85, of Vestavia Hills, Alabama, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 2, 2026. Known to many with deep affection as "Coach Deaton," Jerry lived a life marked by service, leadership, and unwavering faith. Funeral Service will be held at Bell Forestdale Chapel on Friday, February 06, 2026 at 12:00pm family will receive guest one hour prior to service time at noon. Burial to follow at Midway Cemetery. Bro. Milton Chamberlain will be officiating the service.

Born and raised in Ensley, Alabama, Jerry graduated from Ensley High School before proudly serving his country in the United States Air Force from 1962 to 1965. Following his military service, he earned his bachelor's degree in history from Birmingham-Southern College and later completed a Master of Arts in Education from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 1976.

Jerry dedicated his career to education. He opened doors for others, inspiring generations of students, and leading with unwavering integrity. He began his teaching career at McNeil Junior High, where he taught and served as Head Basketball, Track, and Baseball Coach. He then taught at West Jefferson High School, where he was both Head Basketball and Head Football Coach. At Ensley High School, he continued to share his passion for sports as a Football  Coach and teacher. He later taught at West End High School, serving as Head Basketball Coach. Jerry went on to coach both basketball and football at Pleasant Grove High School, where he taught and served as interim Assistant Principal. He later became a teacher and Football Coach at Midfield High School. He went on to be the Assistant Principal at Midfield High School and ultimately served as Principal, where his steady leadership and deep belief in the transformative power of education left a lasting mark on countless lives.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Dean Deaton, and his brother, Fred Deaton.

Jerry is survived by his devoted wife, Shelby Deaton; his sister Ann Clark (Jim); his children Terry Tittle of Hueytown, AL; Jeremy Tittle (Jennifer) of Vestavia Hills, AL; and Michelle Tucker (Gavin) of Vestavia Hills, AL. Of all his roles, Jerry especially cherished being "Granddaddy" to his grandchildren, Ashlynn (Chris), Luke (Payton), and Avery who were his pride and joy.

A faithful member of Shades Mountain Baptist Church, Jerry lived out his beliefs through acts of service. He had a special passion for volunteering at Unless U, where he found great joy and purpose in the friendships and community he built there.

Jerry's life was one of generosity, dedication, and quiet strength. Whether on the field, in the classroom, or among friends and family, he was a steadfast encourager and a steady example of kindness. His legacy lives on in the many hearts he touched.

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to Jerry's Sunday School Class at Shades Mountain Baptist Church for their kindness, love, and support.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.