Former university president Deloney dies at 96
Deloney came to Livingston in 1963, becoming the University’s sixth president
Former University of West Alabama President Dr. John E. Deloney died Tuesday, Feb. 19, at the age of 96.
Deloney, the institution’s sixth president, served a 10-year term from 1963 to 1972. His administration saw student enrollment at Livingston State Teachers College (now UWA) increase significantly, and the faculty doubled.
It was during Deloney’s tenure that the institution reorganized its academic offerings into four separate colleges. With this growth, the school’s name was changed in 1967 to Livingston University to reflect the expanded curriculum.
Deloney came to Livingston having previously served on the faculty at Auburn University. Prior to his tenure at Auburn, he served our nation in World War II. He completed his undergraduate studies at Auburn following his service, then earned a doctorate from Columbia University.
Later in life, Deloney became an active member of the business community when he owned David’s Catfish House in Spanish Fort, Ala.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 45 years, Thyra Riley, and he is survived by daughters Jeanne Maes and Jane Penton.
A celebration of Deloney’s life will be held on March 23 at 1 p.m. at Providence United Methodist Church in Spanish Fort, Ala. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to Providence United Methodist Church.