Dr. William Chester Deavor

Dr. William Chester Deavor, a beloved figure in the Selma community, passed away on August 22, 2023, leaving a profound void in the hearts of all who knew him. Born on November 7, 1939, he was a man of integrity and compassion who dedicated his life to serving others.

Dr. Deavor's impressive career in medicine spanned over four decades. He began his journey by serving an internship at the U.S. Naval Hospital in Jacksonville, Florida from 1966 to 1967. Following this, he attended the U.S. Naval School of Aviation Medicine from 1967 to 1968 and was designated as a USN Flight Surgeon stationed at Mayport, Florida. Driven by his passion for helping others, he pursued a residency in OB-GYN at UAB from 1970 to 1973 and subsequently established a private practice in Selma, Alabama where he served the community with dedication and excellence until his retirement in 2011. During his over forty-year career, he delivered a remarkable number of babies - over 10,000.

Dr. Deavor's commitment to his patients was unmatched. He possessed an exceptional skillset that earned him the respect and admiration of those under his care. With each child delivered and every life saved, Dr. Deavor demonstrated not only his medical expertise but also his genuine concern for the well-being of others.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Deavor was heavily involved in various organizations and activities that left an indelible impact on his community. As an Eagle Scout himself, he believed wholeheartedly in the values instilled by scouting and continued to support the organization throughout his life. Moreover, he served as Director of The March of Dimes, working tirelessly to improve maternal and child health outcomes in Selma and beyond.

Deeply committed to easing hunger in the Selma area, Dr. Deavor selflessly contributed his time and expertise as a board member of the Selma Area Food Bank. His tireless efforts ensured that families in need received the support and nourishment they deserved.

Dr. Deavor's faith played an integral role in everything he did. As a proud member of Church Street United Methodist Church, he served as a Lay Leader and held numerous positions within the church, embodying the spirit of a true Christian. He found joy and fulfillment in volunteering his time and using his leadership skills to guide others along their spiritual journeys.

Alongside his thriving career and remarkable community involvement, Dr. Deavor cherished his family above all else. He married Patricia Ann Wilson on July 29, 1960, in Oneonta, Alabama, embarking on a lifelong partnership built on love and mutual respect. Together, they raised three children: Richard Todd (Stacy) Deavor, Kimberly Deavor (Trey) Barnard, and Mary Kathryn (Garth) Ade.
Dr. Deavor adored his grandchildren: April Nicole Hardy, William Trenton Barnard, Philip Jackson Barnard, Wilson Harris Barnard, Michael Noah Barnard, and Grayson William Ade. He also leaves behind three sisters, Carolyn Hammond, Kay Headrick and Ann Deavor; a brother, Chris Deavor; two great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Dr. William Chester Deavor leaves behind an enduring legacy of compassion, integrity, and unwavering dedication to serving others. His memory will forever inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him to strive for excellence in their own lives.
Visitation with the Deavor family will be held on Tuesday, August 29, 2023, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Church Street United Methodist located at 214 Church Street in Selma, Alabama. Funeral services will follow at the church at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. Dianne Everette officiating and Lawrence Brown-Service Funeral Home directing. He will be laid to rest at New Live Oak Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, Dr. Deavor requested that memorial donations be made in his memory to SouthernCare New Beacon Hospice, 1013 Medical Center Parkway, Suite 101, Selma, Alabama 36701 or the Dallas & Wilcox BAMA Club, P.O. Box 2395, Selma, Alabama 36702.