Mr. Dwight Lee Dean, Sr. was born on June 25, 1955, in Durham County North Carolina. Dwight completed his earthly journey on Wednesday, November 29, 2023, at Duke Hospital, at the age of 68.

Dwight often spoke about how he accepted Christ after overcoming many of life's challenges including the loss of his mother at an early age. Dwight considered salvation as his most valuable possession. His love for the word of God was impeccable and he diligently studied sacred scripture on a daily basis. His favorite scriptures were the entire books of Hebrews and Romans, Isaiah 53, 54, 55, Psalm 27, and Psalm 24 (7-10). Dwight held on to the word of God and spoke those sacred words during his time of transition from this earthly life. He also enjoyed reading and enjoyed riding his bike on the American Tobacco Trail until his health declined.

Dwight joined Oak Grove United American Freewill Baptist Church in Durham North Carolina under the leadership of the late Reverend Z.D. Harris in 1986 and served as a faithful church maintenance and grounds keeper. He found and embraced the church family. He shared a kindred spirit with Reverend Z.D. Harris, and because of his love for Reverend Z.D. Harris he continued his work at Oak Grove for many years. Reverend Z.D. Harris was not only Dwight's spiritual mentor but his personal mentor as well. Dwight was an immaculate dresser, and he had a presence in the room. He was mannerable and ensured he opened doors for ladies entering the sanctuary. However, he could be direct in communication; and you always knew where he was coming from. Dwight was a meticulous tradesman and expert painter. He remained steadfast on providing a quality service to his customers at a reasonable price.

Dwight was uplifted by the many visits, calls and text messages he received during a lengthy hospitalization and final weeks preceding his passing. He will always be remembered as a faithful and generous family member who could be counted on to lend a helping hand when needed. Dwight will be missed dearly by a large Dean family and many friends that loved him.

Dwight will be loved and remembered dearly by his children: Whitney Vaughn (Andre), and Christopher Dean; grandchildren: Jerzaria Dean, Jerzale Dean, J'Nette Vaughn, Janae Vaughn, J'Sai Vaughn, Ja'Mir Vaughn, J'Dynn Vaughn, Janiah Dean, Shaniah Dean, Aniah Dean, and Jordan Dean; sisters: Joyce Dean Prince, Teresa Faye Dean, Janice Dean Covington, Sharon Dean Bailey, Caryn Dean Hassell (Daniel), and Barbara Dean; brothers: Gerry Dean, James Dean, Everette Dean (Ticiana) ; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Dwight was preceded in death by his parents: Lindsey Alvin Dean, Sr., and Sadie Mae McLean Dean; son Dwight Dean, Jr.; brothers: Lindsey Alvin Dean, Lindsey Alvin Dean, 2nd , Charles Edward Dean, Otis Gene Dean, and sister Bessie Lee Dean.

Dwight will be forever in our hearts. May he rest in eternal peace.

The funeral service will be held at Oak Grove Free Will Baptist Church, 801 Colfax St., Durham, NC on Tuesday, December 5, 2023; the visitation service from 10:00 to 11:00 am, funeral service starts at 11:00 am. Reverend Dr. Charles A. Murrill, Sr., Pastor, Presiding.

Burial will be held at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens, 3712 Cheek Rd., Durham, NC.

All acts of kindness are appreciated during this difficult time.