In Loving Memory of Robert Deal, Sr.

Robert Deal, Sr., was born on August 3, 1948, to Faye and Dollie Deal.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Jimmy Deal and Bobby Deal.

Robert was a man of deep faith who loved the Lord with all his heart. He faithfully served as a deacon at Atkins First Freewill Baptist Church and lived his life with kindness, humility, generosity, and a servant’s heart. His faith guided every aspect of his life, and his family finds comfort in knowing that he is now home with his Savior.

Anyone who knew Robert knew his greatest gift was his music. He was one of the finest guitar pickers around, but even more importantly, he was one of the finest men you could ever know. Whether he was on stage, sitting on the porch, or gathered with family and friends, his guitar was never far away. His music brought joy to countless people and will continue to live on in the memories of everyone who had the privilege of hearing him play.

When he wasn’t playing music, Robert loved being outdoors. Whether he was hunting, fishing, or simply enjoying God’s creation, he found peace in nature. He also had a passion for “junking.” He could see treasure where others saw junk and loved spending time exploring flea markets, auctions, yard sales, and old barns in search of his next great find. It was never just about what he found—it was about the adventure, the stories, and the people he met along the way.

Above all else, Robert loved his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Phyllis Deal; his sons, Robby Deal and Jocko Deal (Krystal); and his daughter, Ashley Riedmueller (Justin). He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Laken, Lakin, Makayla, Emma, Tooter, Lainey, Cody, Brittany, Daelyn, Hayla, Wyatt, Pyper, Myla, Maverick, and Laelynn. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren Brantley, Haven, Bean, Wilson, Ryker, Wrenleigh, Brooklyn, and Kamdyn, as well as two precious great-grandchildren expected to arrive soon, Baby Haney and Baby Deal. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Marsha Rhea (Donnie); his sister-in-law, Josie McCoy; his brothers-in-law, Larry McCoy, Joe Jones and Carl Shipp; numerous nieces and nephews; and countless “adopted” children who loved him as family and were loved by him in return.

Robert’s greatest joys in life were his Lord, his family, his music, and the simple pleasures of the outdoors. He treasured every moment with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He loved making people laugh, keeping his wife on her toes with his playful sense of humor, and sharing his talents and time with anyone who needed him. His kindness, generosity, laughter, and unwavering love touched more lives than he could have ever imagined.

He leaves behind a legacy of unwavering faith, faithful service, unforgettable music, unconditional love for his family, and a life well lived. Though his guitar has been laid to rest here on earth, we know the music continues in Heaven.

Funeral services will be held 10:00 AM, Friday, July 10, at Atkins First Free Will Baptist Church with Rev. Johnny McCoy officiating.  Burial is in Oak Grove Cemetery (Conway Co.) under the direction of Lemley Funeral Service of Atkins.  Visitation will be held from 6:00-8:00 PM, Thursday, also at the Church. 

Pallbearers are Carl Shipp, Larry McCoy, Joe Jones, Cody Hubbard, Shawn Grigsby, Tommy “T-Bone” Davis, Jeff “Chick” Hart, and Donnie Rhea.

Honorary pallbearers will be Terence Bobo, Allen Brock, Joe Washington, Larry Ennis, Leon Ennis, Larry Duvall, Larry Weathers, Thomas McCoy and Chuck McCoy.

Online obituary and condolences are available at www.lemleyfuneral.com.