Claude V. Deal, Jr.

Claude V. Deal, Jr., 89, passed away June 1, 2026, in Audubon, PA, from complications of heart failure. Born May 11, 1937, in Monroe, NC, he was the son of Rev. Claude V. Deal, Sr. and Barbara Setzer Deal.

Claude graduated from Lenoir Rhyne College in 1959 and earned his Master of Divinity in 1963, beginning a lifelong call to ministry. He served as a Lutheran pastor before transitioning to hospital chaplaincy, where he devoted 35 years to supporting patients, families, and healthcare professionals, including leadership roles at UNC Hospitals, Williamsport Hospital, and Duke University Medical Center.

A dedicated teacher and mentor, Claude supervised the training of more than 320 chaplaincy students and remained active in professional and church communities throughout his career.

Claude also gave back through Red Cross service following 9/11 and received multiple honors for his humanitarian work.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Elizabeth; his children, Brian & Doug; grandchildren, Paige, Tyler and Victoria; and extended family.