James Raymond Deviney

James Raymond “Jim” Deviney, age 80, of Trilogy Lake Norman in Denver, NC, formerly of Rutherford County, died May 17, 2023.

Jim was survived by his wife of almost 35 years, Betty Lawhon Ephland Deviney, who died on August 20, 2023 at the age of 80 years old.   Jim’s sons are Jeremy Deviney and Christopher Deviney, and Betty’s daughters are Lauren Elizabeth Ephland and Kristen Ephland Cox (Randall).  Grandchildren are Reagan Grace Cox and Dorian McKay Cox.  Jim was their "Poppa.”   Granddaughter Caitlyn Camille Deviney is Christopher’s daughter, and Jim was her “G-Pa Jim.”

Jim’s surviving siblings are sisters Joan Deviney Wall, Mary Rachel Deviney Moore (Hugh), brothers William Charles Deviney (Ann), and Jerry Flynn Deviney (Linda).

Surviving nieces and nephews are Mary Ann Wall Joyce (Walter), Jane Evans Wall, Robert Britt Deviney (Dorothy), Frances Brooke Deviney, Amy Deviney, Cynthia Deviney Camp, Erin Deviney Young (Russell), Alex Moore (Bethanna), and Philip Moore (Natalie). 

When Jim endured a major medical trauma in 1993, thoughtful friends and caring relatives helped Jim and Betty to persevere throughout the years.  In particular, Jim’s cousin Dr. David Deviney gave invaluable assistance and support to them.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents Emory Otis and Mary Flynn Deviney, paternal grandparents William Grant and Malena Towery Deviney, maternal grandparents William Monteville and Mary Hester Flynn, brother Robert Otis Deviney, and brother-in-law Ben Evans Wall, Jr. 

Jim is a graduate of Rutherfordton-Spindale Central High, Class of 1960, and earned his B.A. degree at Lenoir-Rhyne college in 1964.  He graduated from Officer Candidate School (OCS) in Newport, RI, then went to Navy Supply Corps School in Athens, GA.  Following his active duty service in the U.S. Navy with the rank of Lieutenant, he began his Federal Civil Service career at Cherry Point, NC.  After transferring to Naval Air Station, Pensacola, FL, he worked at the Naval Regional Data Automation Center (NARDAC).  His pride in military service prompted his decision to serve in the U.S. Navy Reserves in addition to his civilian employment.  He received his U.S. Navy commission as a reserve officer and achieved the rank of Commander.   Although he wanted to achieve the rank of Captain, unfortunately his health prevented him from reaching his goal. 

Among his honors, he was chosen as a Facilitator of the Executive Leadership Development Program for the Department of Defense.  He was awarded the Meritorious Civilian Service award from the Department of the Navy at his retirement ceremony.  The U.S. Navy Blue Angels presented to Jim their iconic “Best Wishes” framed and autographed award for his achievement as head of department for the Management and Support Division of NARDAC.

During their marriage, Jim and Betty did not miss a year of traveling by plane, train, bus, ship, or car.  Their globetrotting took them to many international and U.S. destinations, and their travel adventures together were one of the great joys of their marriage. 

Friends and relatives who would like to honor Jim’s life may give a contribution to a charity of their choice.   

A Memorial Service to celebrate the life of Jim and his wife Betty will be jointly held at 1 o'clock in the afternoon on Saturday, October 14, 2023 in the Rutherfordton Presbyterian Church with The Reverend Dr. Donald G. Scofield, Jr. officiating.  Visitation will follow the service in the Family Life Center of the Church.  Interment will be private for the immediate family at Rutherfordton City Cemetery. 

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