The Honorable Judge Donald Linscott Deason

The Honorable Judge Donald Linscott Deason, 63, of Edmond, Oklahoma passed away suddenly on Thursday, July 28, 2016. Don was born in Alexandria, Virginia on January 25, 1953, to Robert and Jewell "Judy" Deason. The family resided in Kansas, Hawaii, Tokyo, and Okinawa before moving to Oklahoma in 1969, when his father, a U.S. Army colonel, was transferred to Fort Sill. Don graduated from Lawton High School in 1970. A devoted Sooner, Don received both his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Oklahoma. Don was a dedicated public servant. He began his legal career in 1979 as an Oklahoma County Assistant District Attorney where he served as a prosecutor for more than 19 years. In 1999, he was appointed to the position of Oklahoma County Special District Judge. In 2005, Governor Brad Henry appointed Don as an Oklahoma County District Judge. Most recently he served as the presiding judge for the State's multicounty grand jury and he was serving as the Presiding District Judge for Oklahoma and Canadian Counties at the time of his passing. Don was frequently recognized for his leadership and actions. Governor Frank Keating honored him with a Governor's Commendation for his dedication to crime prevention and victim's rights. Governor Mary Fallin appointed him to the Governor's Impaired Driving Prevention Advisory Council. The Oklahoma Bar Association honored him with the Alma Wilson Award for making significant contributions to the lives of Oklahoma children and he received the Family Law Section's Outstanding Family Law Judge Award. Don was named the 2012 Best Judge Of The Year by The Oklahoma Gang Investigators Association and he was recently selected to serve on the Oklahoma Criminal Justice Task Force created to evaluate Oklahoma County's criminal justice system. Don's reputation for integrity, compassion, fairness and intellect was well known. As a fierce victims' rights advocate, he was respected by both the prosecution and the defense for his commitment to justice. He was a loyal friend and supporter to law enforcement and his fellow jurists. A plaque from the District Attorney's office acknowledged him as "a mentor whose wisdom and experience have enriched the lives of many." Even greater than his dedication and passion for the law was Don's love and commitment to his beloved wife Christine Batson Deason. Don never missed an opportunity to declare his admiration, respect and love for Chris. They were a shining example of mutual adoration and partnership. Their years together, although too few in number, were rich in love and adventure. They shared a passion for all things Sooner and a fervent desire to improve the lives of others in the community. Their circle of friends was expansive and diverse. Don was also devoted father to his only son Paul Deason of Oklahoma City. They were almost inseparable, had many common interests, and their loving bond remained strong. Don was delighted by Paul's recent engagement to Jessica Welch. A man of deep faith, Don was a member of St. Monica Catholic Church where he served as a Lector. He was predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his wife, son, brother Dave Deason of Colorado Springs, CO, niece Alanna Deason of Chicago, IL, Paul's mother DeAnn Deason of Broken Arrow, OK, and his rescued cats and dogs. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 3, 2016, at Crossings Community Church, 14600 N. Portland, Oklahoma City. Visitation will be available on Tuesday between 12:00 p.m – 8:00 p.m. at Smith & Kernke Funeral Home, 14624 N. May, Oklahoma City. Family will be available at the visitation from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Free To Live, Second Chance, or another no-kill animal sanctuary.