Lynda Bailey Deas

It is great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, sister and friend, Lynda Bailey Deas. She passed away peacefully on August 10, 2026, at her home in High Springs, Florida surrounded by her loved ones.  She was 85 years old.

Lynda was born in Charleston, South Carolina, to Marie and Frampton Bailey.  In July 1960 she moved to Gainesville, Florida, with her husband, James "Jimmy' Deas, where they began building their family and their life together.

Lynda was a remarkable woman, caring, giving, selfless, intelligent and wonderfully funny.  She had a quite presence, but those who knew her well also knew her quick wit, spirited personality, and ability to make people laugh.  She was interesting, warm, and genuine, and she had a way of making people feel welcome and cared for.  

Lynda was a woman who valued hard work and independence.  At a time when many women around her were homemakers, she taught herself accounting and bookkeeping and entered the workforce.  She took pride in doing a job well, but her work was only part of the life she built.  Her greatest joy was always her family.  

Family was the center of Lynda's world.  She treasured time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, helping raise many of them taking great joy in being a constant, loving presence in their lives.  Her home and her heart were always open, and she never hesitated to help someone in need, even a stranger.  

Lynda especially loved the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons.  She delighted in decorating and in watching the excitement in her little ones' eyes as they experienced the magic of the holidays.  More than anything, she loved that the holidays brought family together, including her six sisters.  Together, they were affectionately known as the Seven Sisters Club, a bond that brought her great happiness throughout her life.  

Lynda often spoke with admiration about how wonderful and giving her own grandmother had been.   She was too humble to recognize that she had become that same kind of woman, generous with her time, love, compassion, and kindness.  Her family and friends will remember the countless ways she made others feel valued.  

In her quieter moments, Lynda enjoyed working on crossword puzzles and watching her favorite game shows. She had a sharp mind and a natural curiosity, and her quick with was never far away.  She was the heart of her family, the person who brought people together and whose presence made every gathering feel like home.  

Lynda was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 49 years , James H. "Jimmy" Deas, the love of her life since they first met in grade school; her parents, Marie and Frampton Bailey, her son, James W. "Billy" Deas;  her son-in-law, Bobby Keene; one granddaughter; and three of her beloved sisters.

She leaves behind her daughters Robyne Stein (Peter)  and Suzanne Keene (Bobby, deceased); seven grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; and, most recently, 2 precious great-great-granddaughters.  She also leaves behind a large and loving extended family of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who will forever cherish their memories of Lynda.

Lynda leaves behind a legacy of love, generosity, laughter, and family.  Though her absence will be deeply felt, the countless lives she touched will continue to reflect the kindness she gave so freely.  She was the heart of her family, and she will be loved and missed beyond measure.  

The family is working on a virtual celebration of life to accommodate family and friends who live out of town, as well as those with disabilities who wish to participate.  The private link will be shared with the family and friends once arrangements are finalized.  

Arrangements have been entrusted to Evans Carter Funeral Home 18724 High Springs Main St. High Springs FL 32643