Juanita "Dee" Dean

Juanita Winfield Dean, affectionately known as "Dee", passed away peacefully on August 29, 2024, at the age of 92. Dee was the heart and soul of her family, and her presence brought warmth and grace to everyone fortunate enough to know her. She was not only a picture of elegance, always impeccably dressed and radiant with her perfectly styled hair and graceful demeanor, but also a beacon of kindness and compassion.

Born on January 10, 1932, in Birmingham, Alabama, Dee was the beloved daughter to Ollie Bell Winfield and Ezra Winfield. She married the late Edward (Wixie)Dean, Jr.,in 1949, and they shared a lifetime of love and devotion in Brighton. Dee was preceded in death by her cherished son, Lefred (Eppie/Wixie) Dean, whose memory she held close to her heart. She was also predeceased by her husband Wixie Dean, Jr., her mother Ollie Bell Green Winfield, her father Ezra Winfield, her mother-in-law Clara Mae Oliver Dean, two sisters Robbie (Sweet) Hines, and Yvonne (Bay)Winfield, a niece Theresa Hines, a nephew Michael Hines, a great niece LaTonya Bradley and a great nephew Jamel Nathan Thomas.

Dee received her education in the Jefferson County school system. Throughout her 50 year career, Dee was more than the executive caregiver for the Botnik, Goldstein, Lishkoff, and Warren families; she was a dear friend, confidante and bonus mother to the children that she cared for. Her culinary skills were legendary. She delighted in cooking and baking for those she loved. Dee's fried chicken recipe is even on The James Beard Foundation website as Juanita Dean's Fried Chicken Recipe. In retirement, Dee embraced at home hobbies including crocheting, gardening, and staying active at the Brighton Senior Center.

Dee's love for her family was boundless. She was a nurturing presence, lovingly raising her grandchildren and serving as a wonderful aunt. Her eyes would light up and her smile would warm the room when she spoke of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her two great-grandchildren brought her immense joy, and she cherished every moment with them.

Dee's quiet strength and calm demeanor made her a role model for all. She possessed a unique ability to impart wisdom without raising her voice, using each interaction as teaching moment. Her legacy of grace, kindness, and dedication will be forever cherished by her family and all who knew her. Dee is survived by her grandchildren Mia Lafreda Dean-Johnson (Shawn), Brandi Dean-Bolette (Jason), Brandon Lefred Dean, Qiana Davis (Roger),Charles Davis and Johnny Dean; great-grandchildren, Jada Jason, Jr., Michael, Ryder, Rylaa, and Emma; daughter-in-law Alma Dean, and Gwendolyn Dean; close friend and sister-in-law Valada Gibson; nieces, Valerie Hines, Sherry Witherspoon. Deborah Thomas, and Wanda Eaton as well as numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.

Dee's legacy will endure in the hearts of her loved ones and in the lives that she touched with her boundless compassion and elegance. May her memory continue to inspire and uplift all who had the privilege of knowing her.