Juanita Deaton Rivers

Juanita Rivers was born on November 28, 1944, in Louellen, Kentucky, to Paul Deaton and Malta Deaton. She grew up in Lee County, Virginia, where she met and married the love of her life, Gaye Rivers. They were united in marriage on September 29, 1962, at the Dryden United Methodist Church Parsonage and shared more than six decades of unwavering devotion to one another. Together, they built homes filled with warmth, faith, and generosity, raising their family and tending to their farm before ultimately settling in Kingsport, Tennessee, where they would spend their cherished later years. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Juanita’s life was defined by her selflessness and her boundless love for others. Her heart was pure, and she always made sure there was a place at her home for anyone in need, offering comfort, kindness, and welcome to all who entered her door. Her faith was central to her being, and she was a dedicated member of her church community throughout her life. She gave her time freely, always willing to help wherever there was a need, and took great joy in being part of the fellowship of believers. Juanita cherished the outdoors and found joy in tending to her beloved yard and flowers. She took pride in creating a beautiful and peaceful space, and her love of nature shone through in the care she gave to every bloom and mulched garden. She also had a special love for games of all kinds. She delighted in puzzles, especially jigsaw and crossword puzzles, and adored the time spent playing Rook, dominoes, and Uno with her family and friends. These simple moments of laughter and connection became some of her most treasured memories. Above all, Juanita was delighted in her role as a mother and grandmother. She poured her heart into her family, creating a legacy of love and care that will carry on for generations. Her presence brought comfort, her words brought peace, and her embrace brought strength. Juanita was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gaye Rivers; her daughter, Teresa Andrade; her parents, Paul and Malta Deaton; and her brothers, Arlis and Robert (Bobby) Deaton. She is survived by her son, Michael Rivers; her siblings, Paul Jr. (Buddy) Deaton, Deloris Rivers, and Doyle Deaton; her grandchildren, Shea Wild, Logan Rivers, Ashley Andrade, and Alex Rivers; and her great-grandchildren, Draven and Ronin. She will also be remembered dearly by her extended family, friends, and church community who were touched by her generosity and faith. Juanita’s memory will live on through the countless lives she brightened with her love, her service, and her unwavering devotion to her family and faith.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 10, 2025, in the Garden of Prayer located at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home & Memorial Park located at 2630 Hwy. 75, Blountville, Tennessee. The service will be officiated by Chris Brown and Ginger Isom. Pallbearers will be Grandchildren, Great-Grandchildren and Nephews.

Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Homes is honored to serve the family of Juanita Deaton Rivers.