The yellowing of lower leaves that are not getting enough sun is very normal...Mine just did that too...PLK is right ,listen to everything she said.Good job on injuring that deer.Just kidding,I'm sure thats not what you intended to happen!
But just go get some deer repelant stuff.I think it's animal piss that you hang on a branch w/ a soaked rag.Good Luck

I think the leaves that die right before flowering are making room for the sun to hit the lower buds.