William Slyvester "Sly" Dean

Youngstown-On Wednesday October 29, 2025, William Slyvester Dean aka "Sly", 87, departed this life and went home to be with the Lord.

William was born November 9, 1937, in Youngstown, to William Dean and Sadie Swan. He was raised by his grandmother Vallie Walls and stepmother Pauline Dean after his mother passed away when he was 2 yrs old.

William worked at U.S Steel, a security guard and a manager at Denny's. He was also a member and Coordinator for the motorcycle group Brothers of the Hammer in the 70s.

William Dean changed his life and completely turned his life over to the Lord as a younger man when he was a member of Phillip Chapels God in Christ, His faith led him to later becoming a Deacon and then on to an Ordained Minister on July 3, 1984.

William leaves his devoted wife, Earlene Dean, whom he married March 15, 1979; four children, Paulette, Sandra, William and Darrell. He also leaves 19 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; and two daughters in love, Judy Dean and Neera Dean.

William was preceded in death by his grandparents; parents, William and Pauline Dean; sister, Patricia Rouse; brother, Donald Dean; daughter, Terry Dean; stepdaughter, Charlene Chapman; and great- grandson, Anthony Williams.

Family and friends may pay their respects from 9 to 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, at Rising Star Baptist Church, 2943 Wardle Ave. in Youngstown, followed by a 10 a.m. funeral service.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the professional care of the Rossi Brothers and Lellio Funeral Home, 4442 South Ave., Boardman.

Family and Friends are encouraged to offer prayers for the family by visiting the Book of Memories at www.rossifunerals.com.