Gordon Darwin DeLoach, 64, passed away unexpectedly on September 8, 2025, at his lifelong home on Tybee Island, GA. He was the son of Richard T. DeLoach Sr. and Mae W. DeLoach. Born on January 24, 1961, Gordon will be remembered for his devotion to his family, friends, faith, and his community but most of all his love of Jimmy Buffett and of everything “Tybee.” 

He graduated from Benedictine Military Academy in 1978 and attended Armstrong State College, but his heart was always with his family and with Tybee. Gordon was a partner with his wife, Ilona, in their wedding business, Back River Imaging, where he also served as an officiant, joyfully uniting couples on the beach. In addition to Tybee, Gordon loved the Florida Keys, taking many trips with friends to lobster, fish, and pursue his passion for underwater photography. 

He was an avid water skier, bike and boat enthusiast, and a faithful member of the Tybee Prayer Bar. Over the years, Gordon worked alongside his father at Gulf Oil and Powell Duffryn, served the City of Tybee, and contributed his skills in construction and other trades. Gordon was known for his reliability and hard work and built a reputation for always lending a hand and doing what needed to be done. 

Gordon is survived by his loving wife, Ilona Rausch DeLoach; her daughter, Deana Rausch of Atlanta, GA, son, Kyle (Jenette) Rausch of Crestview, FL, and his cherished grandchildren: Atticus, Payton, Abigail, Josiah, and Caleb Rausch and Haili White Buletza. He is also survived by his brother, Richard T. “Rick” DeLoach Jr., and Rick’s wife, Andrea, of Fayetteville, GA; as well as his nieces, Madeline DeLoach Komic and her husband, Adi Komic, and Anna C. DeLoach of Atlanta. He will also be missed by his faithful dog and buddy, Tully. 

Gordon never met a stranger. He touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed by his family, his friends, and the entire Tybee community. 

As he wished, a private service will be held, and his ashes will be spread in the two places he loved most — Tybee Island and the Florida Keys.  The family asks to send donations in lieu of flowers in memory of Gordon to TybeeLightHouse.org or The Bar Church PO Box 89, Tybee Island, GA 31328.