Meray Dieckmann

Meray Deaton Dieckmann, 77, of Apex, North Carolina, was called home to Heaven, now healed and in the loving presence of God. A memorial service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Friday November 21, 2025, at Thomas Funeral Home Chapel, 401 North Ennis Street, Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina. The family will receive guests one hour prior to the service.

Born on January 4, 1948, in Liberty, North Carolina, Meray was the oldest of five children born to Paul Brewer and Ruth Clapp Deaton. A proud graduate of Liberty High School, Meray was a standout student and athlete, serving as the starting point guard for the women’s basketball team and a member of the Beta Club. She earned a scholarship to Meredith College, but life’s path led her on an adventure that took her far beyond her hometown.

Meray began a lifelong career in banking, one that spanned more than 35 years and took her across the globe. She lived in Guam and later Germany before returning home to North Carolina, where she continued her professional journey surrounded by family and lifelong friends.

While Meray achieved much in her life, her greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was being a mother to her two beloved daughters, Hilary and Lindsay. Her love for them was immeasurable, and her devotion unwavering.

Meray found happiness in life’s simple pleasures—spending time with family and friends, visiting the beach, sharing her deep love and knowledge of music, watching Christmas movies, and cooking for the people she loved most.

Those who knew Meray will remember her for her kind and gentle heart. She had a remarkable gift for making others feel special—always offering a kind word or compliment, always showing compassion. Her legacy is one built on love, faith, and kindness. She devoted herself to God and was a proud member of Fellowship Bible Church in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina. Through her words and actions, she reminded everyone that love, and faith are what truly matter in this life.

Meray is survived by her two daughters, Hilary Dieckmann and Lindsay Dieckmann; her brothers, Paul “Pete” Deaton and Roy Lynn Deaton and their wives Jan and Kim; her sisters, Vera Kopiec, Jonelle Lowe and many cherished nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Ruth Deaton.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in Meray’s honor to Duke Cancer Research, continuing her legacy of love and hope.

Meray’s life was a beautiful testament to grace, compassion, and unwavering faith. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know and love her.