Rock Hill, SC – It is with great sadness we announce the passing of James Ray Deas on Sunday, February 16 at his home. Ray was 98 years old. A memorial service will be held Sunday, February 23 at 2 PM at Greene Funeral Home Northwest Chapel, 2133 Ebenezer Rd, Rock Hill, SC 29732.
Born July 11, 1926, in Rock Hill, Ray was the son of Olin Deas and Catherine Ruff Deas. After serving in the Philippines and Japan during WWIl with the US Army, Ray returned home where he soon met the love of his life, Clara Ross and they were married in 1948, and remained so until her death November 2024.
After several jobs, Ray found his way to TE Jones and Sons Furniture in Rock Hill. When this business expanded to York, SC, Ray was named Manager and eventually became owner of that business in the early 60’s. It became one of the pillars of the York Community and after its closing around 2015, York honored Ray at City Hall with a Ray Deas Day to honor his service to their community. Ray’s business acumen was well respected, and he also served on many Boards for other local businesses and banks such as Bank of York.
Ray was preceded in death by his wife, Clara, and also by his parents. In addition, Ray was also preceded by his brothers Bill Deas, Levy Deas, sister Mary Ellen Whisonant, and grandson, Joseph Andrew Deas.
He is survived by his son, Dan Deas (Gerry) and daughter, Susan Boyd (Jim), both of Rock Hill. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jenna Boyd, Kevin Boyd, Amy Deas, Ross Deas, Walt Moody, and Whit Moody, and great-grandchildren, Preston Deas, and Remi Novobilsky.
The Deas Family gives special thanks to Ray’s wonderful in-home caregivers. Dara Roseborough, Brenda Canty, Maureen Phillips, and Diane Lowder.
Memorials may be made in Ray Deas’s name to the Humane Society of York County, 8177 Regent Parkway, Fort Mill, SC 29715.