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1975 DeWayne 2024

DeWayne Deshon East

November 4, 1975 — May 14, 2024

Akron

DeWayne DeShon East
November 4, 1975 – May 14, 2024
DeWayne DeShon East, beloved father, husband, and son, passed away
unexpectedly on May 14, 2024, at the age of 48.
Born On November 4, 1975 to Desiree East and the late William Roger East,
DeWayne was a radiant spirit whose jovial presence could thaw the coldest hearts.
From an early age, he demonstrated remarkable athletic talent, excelling in various
sports, particularly football. His prowess on the field earned him numerous offers
from Division I and II colleges.
However, DeWayne met and fell in love with Christina Schuler. He took on the
role of father to her son Alex Naftzger and together they had 2 children, a
daughter, Taylor East and a son Tysen East to carry on the family name.
Prioritizing fatherhood above all, DeWayne’s relentless drive to support his family
never wavered, and his ability to master new skills became a defining trait.
In June 2016, DeWayne married his soulmate, Sonya Dovell. Together, they
created countless cherished memories, particularly with their beloved dogs, birds
and cats. They were as much a part of the family as anyone.
When it came to the kids they made sure it was always eventful. Going to the pool,
riding their bikes all over town, walks in the forest, singing to you in the car, and
playing games with the neighbors. He was so full of life everyone flocked to him,
like a moth to a flame.
DeWayne loved spending quality time with his children and family and caring for
his dogs. He was an avid sports fan and enjoyed nothing more than watching his
favorite hometown teams. He had the need for speed and loved driving in his red
mustang. His hobbies and interests reflected his love for life and the simple joys it
offered.
DeWayne was preceded in death by his grandparents Delia and Robert Baker, and
James and Carlotta East, father (Roger East), and sister LaTosha Nicole.

DeWayne leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter. He is survived by his wife,
Sonya East; his children, Taylor East, Tysen East, and Alex (Olivia) Naftzger; his
grandchildren, Ivan and Jaden Naftzger and Ezra East; his mother, Desiree
(Robert) Morrow, his stepmom Patricia (Roger) East, his sisters, Katrina (Kenneth)
Matthews, Arie (Wendy) Gray, his brother Robert Gray, his aunts Elizabeth East,
Toni Hall, his uncle James East and a close-knit family of first cousins, and
friends who had become family.
To say that DeWayne was extraordinary is an understatement. His light, though
extinguished too soon, will forever glow in the hearts of those who loved him. He
truly knew how to make you feel very special even at your lowest of times. His
kindness, warmth, and indomitable spirit will be dearly missed but never forgotten.
Calling hours will be from 1pm-2pm on May 29th 2024 at Wilkinson Funeral
Home, 1158 South Arlington Street, Akron, OH 44306
A memorial service will be held at Galt Park Lodge located at 2000 Oneida
Avenue, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221 from 3:00-4:00 with the repast immediately
following in the same location.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to [Humane Society/One of a Kind
Pets], a cause close to DeWayne’s heart.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of DeWayne Deshon East, please visit our flower store.

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