
John was born in Birmingham, Alabama on January 24, 1947, to Bill "Square" and Lill Deale. He graduated from Phillips High School in 1966 and married the love of his life, Elaine in May of 1967. Shortly thereafter, he proudly served his country in the United States Army as an Air Traffic Controller stationed in Neuenburg, Germany.
Following his military service, John dedicated 30 years of his life to public service as a Firefighter and a Paramedic with the Mountain Brook Fire Department. He was proud to be a legacy firefighter, following in the footsteps of his father and continuing a second generation of service to his community. A lifelong learner, he later graduated from Athens State University in 1997 and was also a proud graduate of the Alabama Fire College.
John is preceded in death by his beloved son, Michael Deale, and his parents, Bill "Square" Deale and Lill Deale. He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Elaine Deale; his son, Jeff Deale (Harriette); and Carol (Jody) Elaine's sister, whom John and Elaine lovingly raised and always considered their own. He is also survived by his brother, Jim (Dana) Deale, along with extended family and many close friends.
Known affectionately as a "jack of all trades and master of none" John was happiest working with his hands. He loved bass fishing, woodworking, and also enjoyed working as a contractor when not on duty at the fire department. A true motorcycle enthusiast, John took several cross-country rides with family and friends, collecting stories, memories, and friendships that lasted a lifetime. His steady work ethic, adventurous spirit, and quiet generosity defined the way he lived.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Lakeside Hospice for their extraordinary compassion, care, and unwavering support. Their team truly went above and beyond for John and the entire family.
A Visitation will be held on Wednesday December 17, 2025 from 12:00-2:00PM from the Chapel of Kilgroe Funeral Home in Leeds, Alabama with a Funeral Service to begin at 2:00PM. Burial will be at Branchville Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the American Diabetes Association in John's honor.
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