Franklin J. Dean, Jr.

Maj. Franklin J. Dean, Jr., USAF (Ret.), a dedicated military veteran, skilled pilot, and passionate photographer, passed away on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at the age of 87. He was the beloved son of the late Franklin Jackson Dean, Sr., and Eloise Durham Dean.

Born on December 10, 1935, in Memphis, Tennessee, Frank grew up in Eudora, Mississippi. He graduated from Hernando High School, in Hernando, Mississippi, before attending Mississippi State University for one year. As a young gentleman, Frank enlisted in the United States Air Force where he served for 20 years, most of which was served as a pilot. He retired with the rank of Major.

Following his retirement from the Air Force, Frank continued to pursue his love for aviation by working as a private pilot.

Frank was a dedicated volunteer at the Museum of Aviation, where he generously shared his knowledge and love for planes with others. He was also a talented photographer, capturing the beauty of the world through his lens. Franklin's love for the natural world extended to birdwatching, where he found joy in observing his feathered friends.

Maj. Franklin J. Dean, Jr., USAF (Ret.) leaves behind a legacy of service and dedication. He will be fondly remembered by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched throughout his life.

In addition to his parents, Frank was preceded in death by his daughter, Amy Cousar, and siblings, Lawrence Dean and Jane Ward.

His memory will forever be treasured by his wife of 66 years, Edna Earle Dean of Warner Robins; grandchildren, Davis Cousar (Frankie) of Marietta, Georgia, and Elizabeth Myers (Daniel) of Fayetteville, Georgia; siblings, Simon, and Lowry Dean, along with the world’s best dog, Teddy.

A memorial gathering with friends and family will be held on Tuesday, November 14, 2023, from 3:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at McCullough Funeral Home.  A memorial service will immediately follow in the chapel of McCullough Funeral Home at 4:00 p.m. Maj. Franklin J. Dean, Jr., USAF (Ret.) will be laid to rest privately.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully suggests memorial donations be given in memory of Maj. Franklin J. Dean, Jr., USAF (Ret.) to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105.

Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the Online Registry for the family.  McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.