Sarilea Deaton

Sarilea Deaton, age 85, of Little Rock, Arkansas passed away on May 1, 2025 due to complications of dementia.

Sarilea was born on August 18, 1940 in Grenada, Mississippi to Floyd and Sadie Deaton. She grew up in Grenada and graduated from Mississippi College for Women. Upon graduation, Sarilea moved to both New York City then Dallas to pursue a career with American Airlines.

In 1985, Sarilea moved to Little Rock to care for her aging parents when she decided to make a career move. She received her master’s degree in special education from the University of Central Arkansas and worked a number of years at ARChild Preschool Center. Sarilea subsequently worked at Tri-District Early Childhood as a preschool special education teacher until her retirement in 2005.

Sarilea was predeceased by both of her parents. She is survived by her partner of 40 years, Sandy Snow. She is also survived by a cousin, Lloyd Roberts, and her adopted family: nephew, Wes Ware (Patty) and their children, Lauren and Ryan, niece Christy Sears (Alex) and their children, Colton and Bash, and niece, Terri Glowe (Justin). Sarilea is also survived by special friends, Patty and Lendon Hinton, whose children, Aaron (deceased), Sarah, Jonathan and Melissa, whom she helped to raise.

In her retirement years, Sarilea enjoyed gardening, playing with her five rescue dogs, having a glass of wine with her friends and relaxing with Sandy in their cabin in Heber Springs. Sarilea was a loyal, loving partner and a loyal friend. She dedicated her life to loving and helping children with special needs. She had a special place in the hearts of her friends, family and coworkers. She will be greatly missed!

Donations can be made to a dog rescue of your choice or ARchild, 7723 Colonel Glenn RD, Little Rock, AR 72204

Arrangements by Arkansas Cremation, 10515 W Markham St, Suite B1, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205. If you would like to leave a message of condolence to the family, you may do so using the Guestbook section.

www.arkansascremation.com