Henry Jay Dean, 79, husband of Sarah J. Anderson Dean, was called to his eternal rest on Saturday, April 9, 2011 at Tuomey Health Care System, Sumter, a loving husband, a dedicated father, a good grandfather and great grandfather a brother, uncle, caring neighbor, friend and an untiring man of God. Henry was the second of five children born to the late Johnnie Sr. and Minnie Louise Wilson Dean on August 1, 1931 in Lee County. He was educated in the public schools of Lee County.
At an early age he gave his life to Christ and joined Unionville A. M. E. Church, St. Charles, where he worked in the capacity of Chairman of the Trustee, a member of the Usher Board and as a Class Leader. He worked diligently in the church over a period of 60 years.
Henry served his country in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. He received an honorable discharge after his tour of duty. Henry was a man who believed in providing for his family. He worked two jobs for many years. He was employed with Newton Amateur as a mechanic. He was also employed with the Lamar and Lynchburg Police Department as a part time policeman. He was a member of Lucknow Lodge #324 of Free and Accepted Masons for 50 years.
In 1975, along with his wife Sarah, Henry became the owner of H & S Auto Electric. Throughout the Sumter Area Henry was known as one of the best and honest mechanic. After 25 years of serving the Sumter Area as one of the best mechanic he retired. After retirement he kept himself active and vibrant by spending quality time with his grandchildren and great grand children. He was always willing to help his family and friends. Whenever he was in the presence of others there was never a dull moment. He always kept a joke or two to make others laugh.
He leaves to cherish his memories and celebrate his legacy: a devoted and loving wife of 57 years, Sarah J. Anderson Dean; three sons, Eddie (Florence) Dean of Blacksville, James C. Dean of Sumter, Carl A. (Gina) Dean of Raleigh, NC; two daughters, Fredia (Daniel) Smith of Orangeburg, Katherine (Rev, Jimmie) Allen of Fort Washington, MD; one brother, Willie Dean of Sumter; two sisters, Essie D. Clark and Carlie D. China, both of Sumter; five sisters-in-law and one brother-in-law, Carrie Anderson and Rena Burrell, both of New York City, Frances Dean of Sumter, Willie Mae Anderson of Mayesville, Cheryl and Wash Anderson of Atlanta, GA; twelve grandchildren; twelve great grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.
Funeral services were held 2:00 p. m., Thursday, April 14, 2011 from the Unionville A. M. E. Church, 1330 Swimming Pen Road, St. Charles, with the Rev. Alvin E. Webb, pastor, eulogist, assisted by the Rev. Dr. Clyde Anderson of World Council of Churches International, New York, NY, Rev. Larry Clark, Rev. Harry Clark and Bishop Larry Carter..
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