Judge Dean

Mr. Judge Dean, affectionately known as "Judge" to all who knew and loved him, embarked on his eternal journey on Tuesday, December 24, 2024, at the venerable age of 98. Born on Wednesday, June 30, 1926, Judge's life was a testament to the enduring power of love, hard work, and faith. His story is one of a life not just lived, but lived with purpose and joy, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and guide.

Judge was a man whose roots ran deep into the soil of the community and the hearts of his beloved family. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mamie Louise Bell Dean, parents, Jim and Mary Dean; his brothers, Foy Dean and John "Pie" Dean (his twin); his sisters, Johnnie L. Chatman, Dossie Dean Kirkland, Rossie Dean, and Pearl Dean Griffin; and his granddaughter, Tquanika Pennywell. Their memories were held close to his heart, each one a chapter in the story of his life.

The love and memories of Judge will be forever cherished by his three daughters, Elaine Dean Reeves (Stephenson) of Anniston, Alabama, Annie Dean Spearman (Hank) of Hillside, New Jersey and Jacqueline Pennywell of Saint Petersburg, Florida, who each carry a part of their father's spirit with them. His grandchildren, especially John Henry Hicks III (Nikisha) of Dothan, Alabama-who lived with for three years in Killeen, Texas, Keisha Dean of Greenbrook, New Jersey, Yolanda Morrow, Monique Pennywell, Brian Pennywell and Ashley Pennywell all of Saint Petersburg; eighteen great grandchildren especially A'Miya Jazelle Hicks, with whom he shared precious years in Killeen, Texas, will remember their grandfather as a pillar of strength and love, eighteen great grandchildren; Judge's sisters-in-law, Beauty McBride (Bobby), Mae Rose Cody (Connie), and Essie Pryor all of Dothan, Alabama, as well as his other special children, Joshua Young and Elaine Kea, and his godchildren, "The Godwins", Ruby Anderson, Jacqueline Faulk-Glover, Barbara Williams, Henrietta Ward, Karey Godwin, Jerry Godwin, Jr., and the late Catherine Godwin, will all hold dear the memories of a man who was more than just family—he was a guiding light; nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Introduced to Christ at an early age, Judge joined the Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, remaining a faithful member throughout his life. His faith was his compass, guiding him through the joys and challenges of life. On Wednesday, November 22, 1950, he united in Holy Matrimony with the love of his life, Mamie Louise Bell, and together they navigated the journey of life with unwavering commitment and devotion until her passing on Tuesday, June 3, 2003.

Judge, alongside his brother Foy, was a steward of the land as an avid farmer in the Stateline Community. Their labor of love extended up to 200 acres, a testament to their dedication and hard work. Judge's commitment to providing for his family and community didn't stop at the farm; he also served and retired from Golden Peanut (Gold Kist) in Graceville, Florida, after 35 years of faithful service.

Even in retirement, Judge's love for people shone brightly as he worked at Winn Dixie in Dothan, Alabama, for fifteen years. Known as the "bag boy," his warm smile and generous spirit made him a favorite among customers. Judge's life was a living example of the power of love, generosity, and the human touch.

Described as loving, handy, and generous, Judge was a man who built his life on the foundation of giving. Whether it was through his work, his service at church, or simply by being a friend and mentor, he enriched the lives of all who crossed his path.

Today, we celebrate Judge Dean—a man whose life was a beacon of hope, a reminder that every day is an opportunity to make a difference. Let us honor his memory by living with the same kindness, dedication, and love that he so effortlessly embodied. Judge's journey on this earth may have come to a close, but the lessons he imparted and the love he shared will forever be etched in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him. Rest in peace, Judge, and thank you for showing us the way.

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