Vadina Wray Dean

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Vadina “Dena” Wray Dean, who died on July 28, 2024, in Mansfield, Texas. Born on November 28, 1942, in Columbia, South Carolina, Dena lived a life filled with love, creativity, and service.

Dena’s career was marked by her dedication and hard work. She retired from American Airlines and Sabre, having previously worked as an administrative assistant in real estate and as a devoted homemaker. She was a loving mother who taught her children the importance of friendship and the love of life.

Dena’s creativity shone through in her beautiful china paintings, and her love for nature was evident in her passion for birds. She had a wonderful sense of humor, was fun-loving, and enjoyed being social. Known for her party planning and event organization, she brought joy and laughter to many gatherings. Dena was also a certified clown with Ringling Brothers, where she delighted many as “Ding-A-Ling the Clown.”

A faithful and active member of First Baptist Church Arlington, Dena served her community in numerous ways. She was a beloved five-year-olds choir teacher, a member of The Master’s Singers (TMS choir), and contributed to the flower ministry, bereavement, and wedding committee for many years. Dena also spent many years as a volunteer at Mission Arlington. Her faith and commitment to helping others were evident in all she did.

Dena shared a beautiful life with her husband, Thomas, to whom she was married for 63 years. Together, they were facilitators of GriefShare Support Group, at First Baptist Church of Arlington, a grief recovery support group where they assisted others with the hurt of losing a loved one. They supported each other through life’s challenges. Dena was also incredibly supportive of her children’s passions and had a deep love for music.

Dena is survived by her daughter Jennifer Walsh and husband Robert, Son Doug Dean and wife Nikki, Son Donald Godfrey and wife Jane, brother Roger A Ward and husband Robert C Pruett, grandson Blake Walsh, granddaughters Brianne Walsh and Jana Trousdale, great grandson John Walker Trousdale, and great granddaughter Estella Godfrey Santillan.

Dena is predeceased by her parents Phil and Vada Ward, husband Thomas Dean, brother Jesse Ward, niece Kristyn Ward, and grandson Ben Godfrey.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the caregivers and staff at the Isle at Watercrest for their compassionate care, as well as to St. Gabriel’s Hospice for their support.

Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. on Monday, August 5, at Wade Family Funeral Home, 4140 W. Pioneer Parkway, Arlington. A funeral service will be held at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, August 6, at First Baptist Church Arlington, 301 S. Center Street, Arlington. Interment will take place at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, August 7, at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, Dallas.

Vadina Wray Dean will be dearly missed by her nieces and nephews, cousins, sisters-in-law, other family, friends, and all who knew her. Her legacy of love, kindness, and joy will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Vadina Wray Dean’s honor to Mission Arlington.