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R.D., 81, passed July 29, 2021 in Vero Beach, FL. Born in Watauga County, N.C., to the late William Henry Auton and Gladys Beatrice Auton.
He graduated from Blowing Rock High School and moved to Vero Beach in the mid 1960’s.
Owner of R.D.’s Union 76 from 1969 until 1978, when hired by the Indian River County Sheriff‘s Office, retiring in 2005.
He enjoyed golf, hunting, fishing and was an avid follower of NASCAR.
In the early 1990s, R.D. presented over 10,000 signatures to Indian River County Commissioners regarding the widening of State Road 60. With those signatures, along with lobbying the Florida Department of Transportation the widening of State Road 60 west of I95 became a reality.
From the inception of the Sheriff’s Office Annual BBQ, he worked to make it a great success, raising money for the Florida Sheriff’s Youth Ranches.
He leaves behind his wife of 51 years, Judy Auton, son Billy Auton (Michelle), grandchildren Regan Fuller, Michael Fuller and Coy Auton. Daughter, Lisa Auton, grandchildren Adam Roll and Michelle Meeks.
Along with brother Frank Auton of Melbourne, FL, sister Evelyn Oleta Nelson of Lenoir and sister-in-law Rosa Mae Auton of Boone, N.C. Including many nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his siblings; Four brothers; Ivan, Harley, Marvin, and Lewis. Three sisters, Virginia Auton, Margaret Bennett, Margie Wilcox.
After retirement, R.D. and Judy spent many years seasonally dividing their time between Vero Beach and their home in Boone, N.C.
The family will be holding a private service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Florida Sheriff’s Youth Ranches is in his name.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
© 2024 Lowther Funeral Home. All Rights Reserved.
Sidney & Diane DuBose - Co-worker and friend
August 2, 2021, 7:42 pm
So sorry to hear of R.D.’s passing. R.D. was a very pleasant men, never without a smile. He will be greatly missed among his peers. He earned his wings, and will watch over us. Please accept our deepest condolences. Prayers to extended family as well.
Dianne Hogan - Friend of Lisa
August 3, 2021, 11:07 pm
Dear Family of RD Our prayers are with YOU ALL as you go through this sad time!!! Please let the Love for your dad from so many people give you peace and comfort.❤️
Polly and John McCullers - Friend
August 4, 2021, 9:45 pm
We are saddened by the news of RD passing We have great memories of our times with he and Judy at their lovely home in Boone NC. He was a great family man and had a great sense of humor. He will be missed Condolences to the whole family