Billy "Bud" L. Dean

Billy L. Dean, age 70, of Elkhart, Texas, affectionately known as Bud, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2023, at home surrounded by his loving family. Born on September 21, 1952, in Baytown, Texas, to parents Billie Lavell Dean and Frances Deel Dean.  Bud lived a life full of love, laughter, and devotion to his family and friends.

Bud is survived by his loving wife of almost 46 years, Merilyn Lamb Dean; son, Matt Dean and wife Kristina; daughters, Angela Dean, and Delia Hilts and husband Hayden; sister, Liz Webber and husband Chuck; brother, David Dean and wife Charlotte; sister, Pam Dean; grandchildren, Andrea Dean, Quenton Dean, Madison Dean, Kerstin Dean, Devon Dean, Brianna Hilts, Jacob Dean, and Tristan Dean; great grandchildren, Nova Brown, and Matteo Castorena. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, along with other family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

He is preceded in death by his father, Billie Lavell Dean; his mother, Frances Deel Kholer; and stepfather, Vern Kholer.

Bud worked diligently for 35 years as an electrician, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues and clients.  In his leisure time, Bud could often be found enjoying a cup of coffee while sitting on his porch, reminiscing about the days when he reveled in water sports including surfing and swimming. He took great pleasure in spending time with his children and grandchildren, who brought endless joy and pride to his life. Bud was an avid reader of western novels and loved to watch their adaptations on television. He also had a keen interest in history, often sharing fascinating stories and facts with those around him.

Bud was known for his funny, loving, and thoughtful nature, qualities that endeared him to all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His easy-going personality and his genuine concern for the well-being of his family left a lasting impression on the hearts of many.

In the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, "It is not the length of life, but the depth of life." Bud's life was one of great depth, filled with love, laughter, and a steadfast commitment to the people and passions that mattered most to him.

Bud's passing leaves a void in the lives of his loved ones, but his spirit will live on through the cherished memories and laughter-filled moments shared with those fortunate enough to have known him. Bud left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who loved him.

Friends are invited to a visitation and reception on Saturday, May 6, 2023, from 2:00 PM until 4:00 PM in the Parlor and Reflection Room at Rhone Funeral Home. This will be a time for friends and family to gather, share memories, and honor the life of Bud Dean. Following the visitation and reception, a graveside service will be held at the Garden of Memories Cemetery in Elkhart, Texas, where Bud will be laid to rest.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Matt Dean, Jacob Dean, Tristan Dean, Quenton Dean, Devon Dean, Hayden Hilts and Thomas White.

Graveside services for Billy L. “Bud” Dean are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas. We invite you to take a moment to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with his family by selecting the "Share a Memory" icon.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Billy "Bud" L. Dean, please visit our floral store.