Richard Reese Dean

Richard Reese Dean passed away at United Hospital Center in Clarksburg, West Virginia on May 19, 2025, at the age of 82. He was born December 9, 1942, in Buckhannon, West Virginia, to parents Clifford Franklin Dean and Mildred Virginia Reese Dean. Richard is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Eileen Reed Dean; son David Dean (Clare); daughter Daphne Dean Johnston (Doug); son Dwayne Dean (Emily); sisters Billie Dean Clifton, Twyla Dean Harley, and Sheila Dean Perry; grandsons Dillon Johnston, Devon Johnston, and Alexander Dean (Michelle); granddaughters Clare Kelly Dussol, and Lily Dean; great-granddaughter Abigail Dussol, and several nieces and nephews. Richard was preceded in death by sisters Louise Dean Martin and Ruth Dean Pringle, and brother Benjamin Dean. Richard spent most of his life in Upshur County. His service in the Navy and work took him out of the state for brief periods, but his love of the outdoors and the area brought him back. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, enjoying these activities with family and friends. He was an Elder of his church and would occasionally share a timely word with the congregation. He volunteered with mission trips to Africa, Belize and Guatemala where he assisted with construction projects and in any other way that he could help. Viewing will be at The Way of Holiness Church in Buckhannon on Thursday, from 4:00 to 7:00, and on Friday from 10:00 to 11:00 with the funeral following at 11:00. Richard’s final resting place will be Upshur County Memorial Park, next to his parents. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hands and Hearts for Christ. PO Box 2156, Buckhannon, WV 26201. Hands and Hearts provides free medical and surgical care for those that need it, where they need it. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.polingstclair.com. Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.