Mr. Joseph Lyndon Dean, known to everyone as “Joey”, a devoted educator, coach, and beloved member of the community, passed away unexpectedly on April 7, 2026.

Joey was born in Rome, GA, on September 24, 1978, to Phillip Charles and Lucaellyn “Lynn” Holcomb Dean. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Otis and Annelle Holcomb and Wilmer and Estelle Dean, honorary grandfather, Edsel Dean.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 22 years, Donna Murphy Dean; his pride and joy, daughter, Logan Dean; parents, Phillip and Lynn Dean; brother, Jimmy and Julie Dean; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Kenneth and Carol Murphy; brother-in-law, David and Ashlee Murphy; sister-in-law, Kara and Derick Land; nieces and nephews, Lawson Wright and Mabel Dean, Kalen Murphy, and Brannon and Lily Land; Honorary grandmother, Betty Anne Dean; several aunts, uncles, cousins, and ALL his best friends also survive.

A proud graduate of Cass High School, Class of 1997, he continued his education at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC) and Kennesaw State University, where he prepared for a career in teaching. His passion for agriculture and mentorship led him back to his roots at Cass High School, where he taught Agriculture and was the FFA Advisor. His commitment to the youth of the community extended beyond the classroom as he volunteered as a baseball and football coach in both recreational leagues and high school athletics. A man of faith, he was a member of Pleasant Union Baptist Church in Cherokee County. Everything Joey did, he did with passion and turpitude, from be an unwavering, die-hard Tennessee Volunteers fan, mentoring students, remodeling his grandparents' historic home with his wife, recovering from a life-threatening illness, even eating (recently having a sandwich named after him at a local diner!). He poured his life into others, friends and strangers alike, helping them through tough times with a listening ear or a shoulder to cry on, encouraging them to play or sing, or most often saying something to make them laugh. Those who knew him well will remember his love for music. Along with his daughter, Joey was a frequent and active performer on the local music scene, often seen sharing his talent, and giving others the confidence to perform, at “ ‘Dairsville City Limits”, an open mic night he co-founded. A man of deep faith and diverse talents, he leaves behind a legacy of service and song.

A celebration of Joey’s life will be held Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 4:00PM from NorthPointe Church, Adairsville with Reverends Jim Pinkard and Eric Sorrell officiating. The family will receive friends Saturday from 1:00 PM until 4:00 PM at the church.

In honor of his love and support for the Tennessee Volunteers, the family kindly invites everyone attending the service to wear orange.

R. Dudley Barton & Son Funeral Home, Adairsville, is in charge of arrangements for Mr. Joseph Lyndon Dean.