Deota Gerling

Deota Gerling, a cherished mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, left this world on June 9, 2025, at the age of 98, peacefully at her home in Covington, Indiana, surrounded by her loving family. Born on November 5, 1926, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Deota's life was marked by an enduring commitment to her family, her career in bank administration, and a deep passion for golf.

Deota's personality shone brightly; she was the epitome of warmth and kindness, always wearing a smile that could light up the room. Her love for the game of golf was one of her most defining passions. An accomplished aviary golfer, she took pride in her status as the City Area Golf Champion and was the first member of the River Crest Golf Course. Among her proudest accomplishments were her remarkable four holes-in-one, which remain a testament to her skill and dedication to the sport.

In addition to her love for golf, Deota was deeply committed to her community. She served as the Fundraising Chairman for the Senior Center in Covington, where her efforts benefited many, reflecting her generous spirit and desire to give back.

Deota is survived by her beloved children: daughter Karen Sue Boland, daughter Christy Arlene Pennington, and son Clayton Lee "Bobbye" Gerling. She was a proud matriarch to eight grandchildren, twenty-five great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren, all of whom adored her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her father, William Lee, her mother, Louise Stephenson, and her twin sister, Cleota Lee, and her husband Delmar Gerling on December 20, 2011, whom she married January 9, 1949. The loss of such a radiant soul will be felt by all who had the privilege to know her.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Sunset Funeral Home & Cremation Center's Covington Chapel, located at 420 3rd St, Covington, Indiana, 47932 On Wednesday July 2, 2025 at 12 pm est. Burial will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery in Covington, Indiana. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during visitation on July 2, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM est. at Sunset Funeral Home & Cremation Center, located at 420 3rd St, Covington, Indiana, 47932. Please join Deota's family in sharing pictures, videos, and memories on her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com 

Deota Gerling's legacy will continue to thrive through the joy she brought into the lives of her family, her community involvement, and the memories shared by those who loved her. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered in the hearts of all she touched.