Dennis Edward Deyton

Dennis Edward Deyton - age 76 of Lenoir City, passed away January 9, 2026.
Dennis was born in Death Valley CA. He was raised in Green Mountain, NC, and graduated from Cane River HS in 1967. He received his BS ('71) from NC State, and MS ('73) from Michigan State, and PhD ('78) from NC State. He served as a NC Ag Extension agent from 1973-75. Dennis was honorably discharged from the US Army NG in 1983. He worked as a Plant Science professor at the University of TN for over 40 years.
Dennis was married to his wife, Pam, for 46 years. He loved spending time with his family, especially sharing stories about farming, family history, education, and "mountain ways." He coached sports with his children, and he was dedicated to make sure each kid had a chance to learn, improve, and play. He loved his grandkids, especially taking them for rides on his John Deere Gator and teaching them about plants. He loved riding his tractor, and getting back to tractor work was always a health improvement goal. As a professor, he made time for teaching students of all abilities, including those needing special accommodations. He continued to teach his son, daughter, and grandchildren through his life. He was a man of high integrity and quietly did the right thing, regardless of the personal or professional cost. He had a gentle, ready smile. Despite decades of health problems, he quietly persevered and continued to find ways to unselfishly serve his family.
A celebration of life for Dennis will be held from 2- 4 pm on Sunday, January 18th at Click Funeral Home, 109 Walnut Street in Lenoir City. In lieu of flowers, gifts can be made to Samaritan's Purse in Boone NC, or National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Click Funeral Home in Lenoir City is in charge of arrangements. clickfuneralhome.com