Dr. Charlie W. Dean

Dr. Charlie Dean, 77, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2025. Born May 15, 1948, in Leslie, Georgia, Charlie was the son of John Paul and Kathleen Dean and one of ten siblings, raised in a home of humble beginnings.

With the support of his family, he earned degrees from the University of Georgia School of Pharmacy and the Medical College of Georgia, dedicating himself to the service of others through the practice of medicine—a vocation he regarded as a true calling. Over a career spanning more than 50 years, Charlie touched countless lives with his healing presence, compassionate care, and boundless generosity.

His love for books and knowledge shaped every chapter of his life. He studied medicine, history, politics, and religion not only with depth, but with the heartfelt desire to share what he learned with others. As a physician, mentor, and friend, he uplifted those around him with both intellect and empathy.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings: Roland Dean; Wallace and Bobbie Dean; Gloria Dean; Steve Dean; William Dean; Malcolm and Carolyn Dean; Erlene Dean Thornton; and Earl Dean.

He is survived by his children, Russ Walton-Dean (Will) and Zack Dean, both of Perry; his granddaughter, Riley Walton-Dean; his sister, Earnestine Hurley (Chuck); sisters-in-law, Betty Anne Dean and Pam Dean; and a wide circle of cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Charlie’s legacy endures in the minds he inspired, the lives he healed, and the family and friends he so deeply loved. His was a life lived with purpose, reflection, and grace.

A celebration of life will be held in the chapel of McCullough Funeral Home on Sunday, March 1, 2026 at 4:30 . In accordance with his wishes, his ashes will be spread along the creek bank at his family home—a place of memory, peace, and deep roots.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations in Charlie’s memory to the Medical College of Georgia Foundation atwww.mcgfoundation.org/give-now.