I never met Dean, but through his articles about his life and times growing up in Perry/Taylor County and then his tour of duty in the Navy, I truly feel as if I knew him. His sense of humor and honesty in writing gives me a true feeling for this area to which I relocated. I was honored to have had a part of this publication. When asked what legacy he would like to leave, Dean said, "Remember me to my grandchildren." Perhaps this book will convey to them and to all who read it, their grandfather's love of books, history (especially ancient history), and humor.
He was not afraid to express his opinion; however, he was always willing to listen to the opinions of others. Many times he and his relatives and friends would get into some debates regarding their opposing opinions.
Dean had good insight into local and National politics as well as world events. He expressed his opinion both orally and through his articles about all these circumstances. One will note the Nation and world circumstances of his day have changed very little.
Retired, an Electronic Technician Master Chief with 26 years in the U.S. Navy, Dean returned to his hometown in Perry, Fla. A graduate from Florida State University, with a major in English (writing) and a minor in Sociology, he enjoyed writing from which his column in the Perry News Herald was born.