Thomas Otis Dean

Thomas Dean, a devoted husband, loving father, and esteemed member of the community, peacefully passed away on December 31, 2023, at the age of 83. Thomas was born on August 21, 1940, and spent his childhood in the vibrant city of Houston, Texas.

Thomas will be dearly missed by his beloved wife of 63 years, Vadina Dean, their son Doug Dean, daughter Jennifer Walsh, and son Donald Godfrey. He leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and dedication to his family, community, and country.

Thomas served his country with great honor and valor as a United States Army Veteran during the Vietnam War. He was a proud member of the US Army 159th HDQ Company and dedicated himself to serving his country with unwavering loyalty. After his military service, Thomas embarked on a successful career as a sales representative for Kohler, to which he devoted over 33 years of his life.

Thomas had a genuine passion for service and was an active member of First Baptist Church of Arlington. He touched the lives of many as a deacon and a youth leader, guiding countless young souls towards a path of faith and righteousness. Thomas also led the Grief-Share support ministry, offering comfort and solace to those who were going through difficult times.

His commitment to service extended beyond the church walls, as Thomas actively contributed to his community. He selflessly dedicated over 20 years of his life to the church youth department, molding young minds and hearts. Thomas never hesitated to lend a helping hand and was always there for anyone in need.

Thomas was preceding in death by his parents Thurman and Bernice Dean, and his younger brother Jerry Dean.

Thomas is survived by his wife Vadina Dean, children Doug Dean and his wife Nikki, Jennifer Walsh and her husband Robert Patrick, and Donald Godfrey and wife Jane, and sister Martha Barrie and husband Bob. He also leaves behind two grandchildren, Blake Patrick Walsh and Brianne Elizabeth Walsh, and nieces, cousins, uncles, aunts, and a host of friends,

To honor his extraordinary life and bid him farewell, family and friends will gather together to celebrate Thomas at a Funeral Service held on January 8, 2024, at 11:00 am at the First Baptist Church of Arlington. Prior to the service, a Public Viewing will take place on January 7, 2024, at 2:30 pm at the Wade Funeral Home in Arlington, where loved ones can pay their respects.

Thomas will be laid to rest in a solemn ceremony at the Dallas Fort Worth National Cemetery on January 9, 2024, at 10:15 am, where he will receive the final salute for his dedicated service to his country.

While Thomas may no longer be with us in physical form, his spirit of service, kindness, warm smile, and devotion will endure in the hearts of all those who had the honor of knowing him. May we find solace in the cherished memories we hold of Thomas Dean, a remarkable individual who lived a life of selflessness and left an enduring impact on our lives.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Mission Arlington and Donate Life Texas. Together, let us continue Thomas Dean’s legacy of service and help others and those benefiting from the priceless gift of organ donation.

“Service was the essence of his being, and his memory will forever inspire us to embrace a life dedicated to the betterment of others.”