James William Dean

We cannot have the old days back When we were all together, But secret tears and loving thoughts, Will be with me forever. Wonderful memories woven in gold, This is a picture I tenderly hold. Deep in my heart a memory is kept, To love, to cherish, never to forget.

James “Jim” William Dean, 67, of The Villages, Florida, formerly of King George, Virginia, passed away on December 31, 2024 at home after a two-year battle with ALS.

His beloved wife, Judith Dean, was at his side every step of the way. In addition to Judith, Jim is survived

by his children, Robert Dean (Lisa), Trevor Dean, Megan Coy, and Brittney Dean of Nebraska. His stepchildren include Michelle McDonald (Brandon) of Fredericksburg, VA, Thomas Newcome of Shepherdstown, WV and Joanna Newcome of Charlottesville, VA.

He also leaves behind six grandchildren in Nebraska, Alexander, Nicholas, Julia, Sevryn, Hendrix and Clive; and Michael and Kylie McDonald in VA. He is preceded in death by his mother, June Marie Dean, and father, Robert Stephen Dean.

Jim graduated High School from North Side High in Fort Worth, Texas in 1976 both as class president and valedictorian. He continued his love of learning and history over the years, earning degrees from the University of Denver in 1981, Lavern University in 1988, and George Mason University in 2014.

Jim joined the United States Air Force in 1983 as a navigator. He retired at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in 2005 from the Pentagon, where he also served on 9/11. It was at that time he decided to ask the new lady in his life (Judy) to be his wife. As he said, “Life is too short to wait!”

After military retirement Jim continued his service to the United States as a civil servant with the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He retired from federal employment in March 2023 after his diagnosis of ALS. He wanted to get on the road and retire in the sunshine state where he and Judy set up home in The Villages.

Jim loved to travel, tell stories, have friends for dinner, garden, and especially visit wineries with Judy. He was an avid animal lover and had several dogs and cats.

Jim was a hardworking and loving man. Those who met him were blessed to call him friend. He will be missed by many.

Those wishing to honor Jim and his life can donate to The ALS Association through the below link.

If the donations are in cash/check, they will need to be sent by mail to this address below.

ALS Association - Donor Services

1950 Craig Street, #200

St. Louis, MO 63146