David Blackham Dean passed away on February 17, 2025 at the age of 64, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

David was born on November 21, 1960 in Roanoke Rapids, NC, to the late John Phipps Dean and Rachel Blackham Dean.

He was a 1979 graduate of Roanoke Rapids High School which included a successful athletic career. He went on to play football at Chowan College and was awarded 2nd Team All-American after his second season. Following Chowan, David graduated from East Carolina University.

He was inducted into the RRHS Athletic Hall of Fame both individually for his time playing football and as an assistant coach of a football team that included his son. His love of sports continued during his adult life where he helped coach many of his children's sports teams.

He owned and operated Rosemary Bonded Warehouse. He worked with his father in the business for many years and in recent years, he worked with his wife, Carol. David was dedicated to his work and he treasured the many friendships he developed throughout his career.

David was a devoted husband and father. He is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Carol Clark Dean; his son, Bryan of High Point; and his daughter, Alex of Winston-Salem. He is also survived by his sister, Rhetina Dean of Wilmington; his brother, Brad Dean and two nephews, Matthew and Zachary Dean of Wilmington; and his sister-in-law, Anna Clark of Raleigh. Additionally, he is survived by many cousins and friends whom he cared for deeply.

David's friends and family will remember him for his humor, quick wit, and caring nature.

Askew Funeral and Cremation Services in Roanoke Rapids is facilitating arrangements where the family will receive friends on Friday, February 21, 2025 from 4:00 to 6:00 PM. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at East Tenth Street Christian Church with Pastor Jason Yeatts officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarwood Cemetery in Roanoke Rapids.

David dearly loved his dogs, Duncan and Piper, as well as the many other dogs he adopted throughout the years and he was passionate about supporting local animal rescues. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Rainbow Animal Rescue of North Carolina at PO Box 972, Roanoke Rapids, NC, 27870.