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BORN
1939
DIED
2024
FUNERAL HOME
Harold Deane Obituary
June 19, 1939 - February 3, 2024
Harold Deane, Sr. passed away February 3, 2024, in Petersburg. He was born to Alice Deane Macklin and Theodore Macklin, Sr. Survived by his wife, Thelma Deane; daughter, Benita Deane; son, Harold Deane, Jr.; grandchildren, Victoria Deane, Harold, and Christopher Westbrook.
Services will be held 11 a.m., February 17, 2024, at Good Shepherd Baptist Church, 2223 S. Crater Rd., Petersburg, VA. Interment to follow at Southlawn Memorial Park. A family and friends visitation from 6 to 8 p.m., February 16, 2024 at the church. J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Ave., Petersburg, VA, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.
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Memories and Condolences
for Harold Deane
Sponsored by J M Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. - Petersburg.
Harold Westbrook
March 29, 2024
Greatly Love
Sharon L. Johnson
March 1, 2024
Death has a heartache nothing can heal, but love has memories no one can steal!
Coach Deane was a man to be admired. He always had a positive and kind word to share. He would often say good things to me about my son, Jamaal. I always appreciated this. Family, you have much, and many things to be exceptionally proud of. Be encouraged, Harold, Jr.
Janie Mack James
February 20, 2024
My deepest condolences to the family and friends. I do remember Coach well. I was a cheerleader and traveled with his teams During 1971-1975.
Charles (Jimmy) Downs
February 17, 2024
To the family of my childhood friend and neighbor, my sincere condolences. God’s continued blessings and peace. Rest in heavenly peace my friend, you will surely be missed.
Shirley and Franklin Perry
February 17, 2024
To Thelma, Benita, and Harold,
Our condolences and prayers are with you, as always. We were blessed to know your family as neighbors and friends in our close and loving Trojan Woods neighborhood when we lived there. To God be the glory.
Shirley, Franklin, Stephanie, and Dennis Perry
Mr. and Mrs. Robert l. Miller
February 17, 2024
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Coach Deane I just want to thank you for being great as a mentor , teacher, coach an sports leader in the Health ,Physical Education Recreation Department. I first met you while I was at a VSU Homecoming in early 90s thru my dad who was a swimmer in 70s.
Justin Washington
February 17, 2024
Coach Deane I just want to thank you for being great as a mentor , teacher, coach a sports leader in the Health ,Physical Education Recreation Department. I first met you while I was at a VSU Homecoming in early 90s thru my dad who was a swimmer in 70s. 2012 I met you and told you who I was and you gave me the nickname “son of the Father” . 2013 you taught me Coaching and officiating, taught me the basic of officiating . Also I never forget you asking me for a ride home after class and offered me balled up 5$ bill and I told you to keep that for yourself and you said I’ll give you some peanut chews lol. Thank you for sharing your expertise with me ,the VSU fam ,and building the foundation for VSU Men’s Basketball . You will be miss .
Lawrence Hancock
February 17, 2024
To the family and friends of Harold ‘Beethoven’ Dean Sr. a Lucy Addison High School graduate in the 1956 class. I offer my sincere condolences and I know with time your sadness will turn to joy for all the good times you had with Harold Dean Sr. I was his friend, classmate and basketball teammate in high school.
Larry Hancock
Ralph & Judy Cephas Anderson
February 17, 2024
Harold Deane was a Va. State classmate. He and I actually competed against one another in the Freshman Talent show. My recollection is that we “tied”. He sang “Roll Over Beethoven” -thus, his longtime nickname “Beethoven”. He was one of the nicest guys on campus and a fantastic basketball star! To know him was to admire and applaud him. He had a smile that “lit up” a room.
My husband Ralph (also his classmate) and I send our most sincere condolences to his wife and family.
Maurice Singleton
February 17, 2024
My sincere condolences to the Dean Family
David Pratt @ family
February 17, 2024
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Earl King
February 17, 2024
Hey Harold I tried to reach out to you but you didn't respond. My thoughts are you were probably overrun with all that is going on. I just wanted to say sorry for your loss. I know your and my father played ball together. I'll speak for him when I say your father meant alot to him. They lost contact but he always thought highly of him Your father touched many lives. Love you homey and if you need to talk I'm just one messenger away. We'll be praying for you and your family. Rest in Peace. MR. DEANE AKA COACH DEAN LOVE YOU!!!
Lynwood Robinson
February 17, 2024
We extend our deepest condolences to the family of Coach Deane. As a former football player at Virginia State, it is with great sadness to hear of the passing of such a great example, mentor, and stand bearer. A man who inspired many young people to reach their highest potential. Regardless of the sport, Coach Deane inspired us all. We know he will be deeply missed. Lynwood A. Robinson (VSC Football (1971-1976) and the Robinson Family, Cheryl, Alex and Virginia.
Mal Guinn
February 17, 2024
I had the honor and privilege to play basketball for coach Deane when I was 17 and 18 years old. In Washington D.C. Cardozo high school had great teams with Coach at the helm! I definitely have fond memories of those years growing up! Coach Deane will surely be missed!! He taught to be tenacious, especially on defense!! Rest in peace coach,love you!! My deepest sympathy to the family! Sincerely Mal M.Guinn.
The Todd Family Joel, Dr Annie, Jovanna & Natalie
February 16, 2024
We send our heartfelt condolence to Thelma, Benita, Harold Jr and family. Coach Dean loved his Trojan Woods community and as he jogged the neighborhood daily, he would always greet with a smile and a peace sign. He had such a kind and loving spirit. He certainly was one of the best neighborhood Dads! May God give you all peace and comfort to be able to celebrate his blessed life.
Joel, Dr. Annie, Jovanna and Natalie
Justin Washington
February 16, 2024
Coach Deane I just want to thank you for being great a mentor , teacher, coach a sports leader in the Health ,Physical Education Recreation Department. I first met you while I was at a VSU Homecoming in early 90s thru my dad who was a swimmer in the 70s. 2012 I met you and I introduced myself and told you who I was and you gave me the nickname “son of the Father . 2013 you taught me Coaching and officiating, taught me the basics of officiating . Also I never forget you asking me for a ride home after class and offered me balled up 5$ bill and I told you to keep that for yourself and you said I’ll give you some peanut chews lol. From joking around in the fitness center with other students and friends to conversations about sports and life lessons. Thank you for sharing your expertise with me and the vsu fam. The Deane my prayers are with you
Love,
Justin J.Washington and Family
Vsu days
February 16, 2024
My sincerest condolences to the family, friends, and VsU fam.Coach was a great individual whom inspired me to be a better person.I would always here "my man" and I knew it was him. My prayers of comfort and fund loving memories to the family.
Alice Joyner
February 16, 2024
With deepest sympathy to the family of Coach Dean. He was one of the kindest and most humble persons that I have had the pleasure of meeting. As a colleague at VSU and in my observation of him he really supported his students. He will be missed.
Glover Key
February 16, 2024
GOOD UMPIRE IF IT'S CLOSE IT'S A STRIKE RIP COACH
Claudia Price Covington
February 16, 2024
We extend our condolences to the family of Coach Dean. We will treasure the memories of a kind and gracious man who thought highly of our parents. Please know they felt the same way about him. May God continue to comfort and keep you always.
The children of Coach Charles and Marjorie Price (Harold and Claudia)
Larry and Pearl Cheeks
February 15, 2024
Our deepest sympathy to the Deane Family. We have so many warm memories of Coach Deane at VSU and in the Ettrick Community. May God Bless you and keep you during your time of bereavement. The Cheeks Family
Reggie Roach
February 15, 2024
Jeremiah 29:11says God has a plan for your life.The two most important days of your life are the day you were born and the day you find out why .Choose a career you love and it .will love you back .As we reflect on Coach Deane’s life it is easy to conclude that he fulfilled God ‘s purpose and his divine destiny.God had bestowed on him the gift of encouragement.Encouragement was not just the words he would say,Encouragement was who he was.I was the captain on his first team at VSU and and was also his first student assistant coach .Years later at different intervals my two daughters graduated from Va State and they both had him as a professor.The would often call me and tell how he offered uplifting words and sometimes with a tinge of humor to make it medicinally effective.Several months ago he called me and j was at the hospital bedside of my wife and spoke words of encouragement to her .A few years I attended his induction into CIAA Hall of fame ceremony.A well deserved honor.so as we celebrate BLack History Month 2024 let us always be mindful Va State’s Harold Deane the Coach we all adore.My heartfelt condolences to Mrs Deane and the entire family. Captain Reggie Roach .God Bless!!
Fenton Bland, Jr
February 15, 2024
In this difficult time, may God hold you close to His heart, where He can feel your deepest loss, and fill you His deepest love. May your memories bring you comfort. RIP Nupe
Ricky Whitfield
February 13, 2024
Coach, I just want to thank you giving me the opportunity to play for you at VSU. There will never be another Coach Deane. To Harold, mom and sis... My sincere condolences from my family to yours. If there is anything you all ever need, we are only a phone call away. RIP Coach #VSU #CIAA
Cla Meredith
February 13, 2024
I met Harold thru his umpiring and officiating career, and as a Matoaca HS graduate and athlete, and a HPE teacher and coach myself, we shared that connection. Anytime he did one of my games I looked forward to his great smile and friendly manner - certainly one of the nicest individuals I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. My sympathy goes out to all of his family. RIP Coach - what a wonderful life you lived.
Louise Bond-Cheatham
February 13, 2024
In loving memory of a dear friend to me and my late husband. I will cherish our friendship and memories forever. Love to your beloved family always. May God keep them forever in His care
Linda Person Northington
February 12, 2024
My sincere condolences to Mrs. Deane, Benita, Harold Jr. and the Deane family. Coach was an extraordinary colleague and he loved teaching! He always captured the attention of his students and his basketball players in the classroom and on the basketball court. I thoroughly enjoyed teaching along side him in our coaching and officiating classes. His wit, charm and personality captivated the attention of many individuals. Those who knew Coach Deane will always have fond memories of him. We will truly miss you "Coach."
Dorothy Yancey
February 12, 2024
My sincere condolences are extended to The Family of Coach Harold Dean. May you find comfort in the many memories that you shared with him. He will truly be missed.
Charles Hester
February 12, 2024
My sincerest condolences to Coach Deane's family. Please find comfort in knowing that Coach touched the lives of many and remember that we were all blessed in having the opportunity to have been in his presence in our lifetimes.
I am especially touched to have worked with Coach for many years as a Professor at Virginia State University, were he affectionately referred to me as the "Brown Panther" as I am a graduate of Virginia Union University, and always gave me his signature "wrist shake."
Rest in peace Coach.
Peter Harris
February 12, 2024
Our deepest sympathy to the Harold Dean family. Many great memories from Virginia State of coach Dean. Peter C. and Willie Mae Harris
Linda Jones-Johnson
February 11, 2024
Mrs. Thelma, Benita, Harold Jr., we extending our sincere condolences and deepest sympathy to you and your family. We pray God will comfort and give strength during your time of bereavement!
Curtis, Linda, and Gerard Johnson
Doris Overton
February 11, 2024
Dear Mrs. Dean and family. Please know that our family holds you close during this time. Coach Deane, the consummate gentleman, had a kind, generous spirit that endeared so many to him. From Coach George Moody's family, Doris, Deloris and Alonzo Short, Shajuan Moody Evans, and Erik Moody, we send our deepest condolences.
Cynthia Coles
February 11, 2024
Our most heartfelt condolences are extended to the family of Coach Harold A. Deane, Sr. We lovingly embrace our chapter members, Amy Brown, goddaughter, and Carole Macklin Harris, cousin, who cherish the memory of the life he lived and shared with his family. Words cannot fill the void you are experiencing, but please know that we are praying for and thinking of you and the Deane family as you adjust to the empty seat at the table.
May God continue to hold each of you in his bosom.
Sincerely,
The members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
Beta Chi Omega Chapter
Roanoke, VA
Shirley Bradley
February 11, 2024
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
james Mayfield
February 11, 2024
condolences to the family from a teammate and frat brother Simon Dickerson in BOSTON Mass.
Nanette Fisher
February 11, 2024
My condolences to the family for the loss of such a kind, friendly, talented, honorable and knowledgeable individual. Growing up across from Virginia State, I was introduced to him as a high school basketball player and he always took time to advise and converse with me and I treasured those times as he was always an honorable and admired individual of the community and state. His name and good deeds will always be remembered and honored.
Prayers and condolences to his wonderful family. Much love and blessings.
Tab Battle
February 11, 2024
I first met Coach Dean in my second year of college at Virginia State University. He was quiet, humbled and always went to help others learn the sport at the time. After Coach left VSU, I would always see him in Burger King where I had my breakfast and coffee, He would always say to have a safe day and always cheered me on when I did not know how to play a particular sport. I am so very sorry to know Coach is no longer here. In my eyes I admired his spirit, wit, humor but he always a gentleman. Which is a very well quality. I pray for the family to be comforted at this time. Always cherish your special memories of him as I will. God bless you all at this time. Peace and comfort. Father, I thank you for allowing me the privilege of knowing a very nice, gentle soul Coach Dean
Tony davis
February 10, 2024
God bless from cousin Tony
WILLIAM JACKSON
February 10, 2024
I arrived at Virginia State College in 9/69I tried out for the basketball team and didn’t make the cutCoach Deane told me to work on my ball handling and try out againI didn’t but I became a huge cheerleader and followed The Trojans around to visit Norfolk State Hampton InstituteVirginia UnionNC A & TNCCUand the likesneedless to say I remembered Coach Deane quiet vigorously Coaching from the sidelineshe was quite an inspiration to me
My Sincere condolences To The Deane Family May Harold A Deane Rest In Eternal Peace
William J Jackson VSC 69/74
Cal’Vina Turner
February 9, 2024
Coach Deane was an inspiration to me! He always made class fun. He used to call me “Vinaetta.”
I’m going to miss those wrist shakes. I will keep the family in my prayers. VSU will not be the same. Rest well my Fellow Trojan!
Warren Breeden
February 9, 2024
Our condolences to the family and I remember Coach Deane during my time at VSU
Shirley Whitaker
February 9, 2024
So sorry to hear of the passing of Harold Deane.
I met him at Norfolk State University as the Administrative Assistant to then Athletics Director, William "Bill" Archie (who passed away 2 years ago).
He and the late Charles Christian, our past basketball coach, would challenge each other desperately when he came to Norfolk to play the Spartans and when we went to play them at Virginia State. But off the course they were truly good friends. Coach Christian was a mentor to him and Deane had so much respect for him.
Deane was "an officer and a gentleman." He had the utmost respect for his co-workers, his players, his administrators, his family and his friends. He was just the kind of person you enjoyed being around.
With all that he did for his family, his school, his community and his church, he will sorely be missed. But God had a better plan for him. He is praising, serving and coaching for his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Rest in peace.
Joseph Lyons
February 9, 2024
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Larry Galloway
February 9, 2024
Coach Harold Deane was the most influential person in my life!!! He selected me with an Athletic Basketball Scholarship to come to Virginia State University. This would and has changed my life forever!! Being from the South, Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Coming from a very segregated Louisiana to Virginia State University, a very diverse University, awoke my life and my future!! The exposure to the VSU students and faculty from many Northern cities and States was a mind blowing experience to a Southern boy, 17 years old, from Baton Rouge, Louisiana!!! Thank you Coach Deane for my life!! I will truly miss you!!
Much Love, Larry “Rouge” Galloway!! ❤❤
The Payton Family PAYTON
February 9, 2024
Prayers of condolences to the Deane Family. Coach Deane was a great neighbor in Trojan Woods. He would always smile and throw up those 2 fingers in a wave. He used to jog around the neighborhood greeting everyone and staying in shape. May He find rest in the Lord.
Helen Clements
February 8, 2024
Coach Deane taught me how to swim at Virginia State University. He left an impact on many students there. He will truly be missed by all.
Dr. Shirley Washington
February 8, 2024
Our deepest heartfelt sympathy to the family. Our prayers remain with you during these difficult times.
Donald Harris
February 8, 2024
Our deepest heartfelt sympathy to family and friends in this time of Bereavement. Rest in HEAVENLY PEACE OLD FRIEND GOD'S RICHEST BBLESSINGS to all. Warren, Homer,John,Donald Lee Carl,Leo,Clyde,and others.
Donald L. Harris
February 8, 2024
Family and friends of Harold A.Deane we extend to you our deepest heartfelt sympathy to each and every one of you and Pray that our HEAVENLY FATHER has received him in HEAVEN and given him a very comfortable place on HIS right hand. We schoolmates of HAROLD say rest in HEAVENLY PEACE until we meet again in that Celestial Place that house not made by hands and is ETERNAL IN HEAVEN. FROM THE METROPOLITAN D.C.CREW WARREN DILLON, HOMER PETERS,JOHN HARRISTON, DONALD LEE HARRIS, CLYDE SINGLETON, CARL JONES, AND OTHERS
Coach Deane the young man who started in Roanoke. Take your rest!
Starrie Jordan
February 7, 2024
Starrie Jordan
February 7, 2024
Starrie Jordan
February 7, 2024
Dr. Howard Townsend III
February 7, 2024
Coach Deane was my faculty advisor during my freshman year at VSU.He was a role model and mentor for many Trojans during his tenure. We will miss his spirit and joy for life.
Charlotte Meredith and Family
February 7, 2024
Sincere condolences to the family.
Evangelist Shirley May Dicson
February 7, 2024
Praying For The Family And Friends.
Bruce Davis
February 7, 2024
So sorry for the lost of your loved one. Glad I had a chance to play for Coach Deane. A very nice, funny, straight shooter type of man.
Bruce Davis
February 7, 2024
So sorry for your lost of a great man/coach. Glad I had the chance to meet/play for Coach Deane. A nice, funny straight shooter of a man.
Bruce Davis
February 7, 2024
So sorry for your loss. Glad I had a chance to meet/play for Coach Deane. A very nice, funny straight shooter of a man.
Dixie Crockett
February 7, 2024
I'm so sorry for the loss of your loved one. I pray that God will comfort and bring peace to your family. Coach Deane was always a pleasure to be around and will be missed alot. Love to you all
Carl Hicks & Family
February 6, 2024
To the Coach Deane Family, you have been a part of our lives for many years. We are sadden because you were more than a coach to the Hicks family, you were a part of our family.
Praying for strength for the family during this difficult time. Rest in Peace Coach Deane.
Hines Family
February 6, 2024
Extending our sincerest condolences to our lifelong friends and family, the Deane family. We are praying for your strength and courage to move forward. Coach Deane is “one of one”, the best!
Pam Tinsley
February 6, 2024
To the Deane family ... "My Coach Deane" I first met Coach Deane back in the 80's when I came to Visit Clemmie Marshall and Karen. From the visits I decided to attend VSU after graduating from high school. At VSU 1983 I took tennis and this is where our bond began.....we did some practice skills and after that day Brent(classmate) and myself taught the class the rest of the semester. We were his top two students and our friendship remained some 40 plus years thereafter. Coach Deane was the nicest person you want to meet. He named me "Miss North Carolina". Each time I would come to visit Clemmie and Karen I made it my business to see My Coach Deane..he will he truly missed by so many of us from the VSU family as well immediate family and friends. May you rest in peace "My Coach Deane". Thank you Deane family for sharing such a good person. God Bless.
Pam Tinsley "Miss North Carolina"
Starrie Jordan
February 6, 2024
Harold Deane the All-CIAA Team Member. RIP
William Bailey
February 6, 2024
Thelma and Family, losing Harold, someone we all love, is not easy. But knowing that we have been able to be a part of his life we can realize that we are blessed to have been able to share in his life before he went to rest in eternal salvation. May you take comfort in the fact that you are surrounded by people that love and care for you.
After the tears have dried and the goodbyes have been said, all we have to hold on to are the happy memories that we’ve shared with our loved ones who have passed, this is what keeps them alive in our hearts and in our minds, and they will continue to live on, through us.
No one can understand how hard separation is, then when one of our prized jewels leaves us. You search, and it cannot be found, you ask for him and he does not hear you, you wait, and he is not coming. It remains only the eternal memory in our hearts of our dear brother.
We weep in agony of such a great loss. He will always be remembered, as he is carved in the deepest chambers of our hearts. We will never say goodbye to a man who never left the creases of our hearts. In our thoughts, he shall always be alive. In our prayers, he shall always be included. Harold “Beethoven” Deane was a wonderful man and was cherished by everyone who knew him. May he rest in peace.
Beloved Kappa Fraternal Brother and Classmate,
Bill “Baby” Bailey Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity 1958
James Duckett
February 6, 2024
Memories of a great friendCoach Harold Deane
Our friendship goes back to 1946, we lived on Gilmer Ave. N.W. Gainsboro area in Roanoke, VA. Our street was different from other neighborhoods, everyone knew each other. His grandfather had a horse and buggy and we would ride on the back of the buggy. We both joined First Baptist Church (Rev.James) on the corner where we lived. Growing up we would go to the Hunton Branch YMCA and play ping pong and pool. We would also go swimming at Royal Garden (Lincoln Terrace),he actually saved my life because I almost drowned. He and I would frequent the neighborhood store on the corner of Gainsboro, across from the current Gainsboro library. We went to the same schools, Gainsboro and Harrison Elementary, Booker T. and Lucy Addison High School. He graduated class of 1956. He had a few nicknames,the two that stands out the most is “Nod” which his Uncle Charlie gave him at a very young age, he also went by “Beethoven”, he sang Chuck Berry’s hit song Rollover Beethoven in a talent show at Virginia State University,his alma mater and it just stuck with him. I will miss talking to him on the phone every other week, we would talk about the good ole days and often times the same subject Rest in peace my dear friend
James R. Duckett Sr.
Ben Johnson
February 6, 2024
A time of reflection for my days of my swimming class while attending VSU. RIP coach, I still remember your reference to the "thermometer". A TROJAN that will be well remembered.
Jesse Jones
February 6, 2024
Condolences to the family. Coach taught me at VSU in the late 60’s and was greatly admired. A true gentleman and scholar
Lawrence Green
February 6, 2024
Coach Deane was great mentor for Health and Physical Education majors at VSC/VSU.A good man gone too soon Rest in Power Coach.
Sam Braxton
February 6, 2024
My sincere condolences to Coach Deane's family. Coach lived a life of a true statesman, teacher, coach, and friend. I have never forgotten the lessons I learned from him as one of his student-athletes. Whenever he would see me he would always say "Sam Braxton from Spotsylvania!" His influence stayed with me throughout my own teaching and coaching career. May God bless the family. Rest in God's peace, Coach.
Shirl Jefferson
February 5, 2024
In loving memory of a wonderful person. Coach Deane was my PE Coach during my time at VSU. He was definitely a man of character and professionalism. He gave so much of himself to the students at VSU. Rest well Sir; job well done. To the family, I send my condolences and prayers to you all. May your fondest memories of Coach Deane help to ease the pain on the dark days ahead. Remember, earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal. Hold to God's unchanging hand.
Carlynn Ross Ransom, Curtis Ransom Nancy Ross
February 5, 2024
I am grateful to have been loved and to be loved now and to be able to love, because that liberates. Love liberates ~Maya Angelou
I am forever thankful to share years of friendship with The Deane family.
Vanessa B. Minter-Fegans
February 5, 2024
“And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” Revelation 21:4
My sincerest condolences to the Deane family in the passing of a beautiful soul in your lives, “Coach Deane”; husband, father, community and a Zion Baptist Church member.
I will always treasure the time and patience you had as my tennis coach while I was a student at VSU and when I’d return home from summer break while in grad school.
Whether at church or running into you in general, you always greeted me with a smile and brief conversation about VSU, or updates on what I was doing politically.
May you RIP with our Heavenly Father.
“PEACE BE THE JOURNEY”
Michael L Hill
February 5, 2024
Thanks Coach, Rest in Peace
Jeanne Johns Adkins
February 5, 2024
Coach Deane was in my husband Aldrich W. Adkins early Virginia State University Choir. Aldrich thought the world of him!
Deepest sympathy to the family.
Carolyn Ricks Smith
February 5, 2024
Coach Deane was my 5th grade Physical Education teacher at Annie B. Jackson Elementary School in Waverly
VA 60 years ago. I never forgot him . He was always so kind. My condolences to the family. I will always remember him. He taught the class to square dance.
Charlotte (Petersburg) Anderson
February 5, 2024
Condolences to the Deane family and friends.
John moore
February 5, 2024
What a great man! It was an honor to know him!
Battinto Batts Jr.
February 5, 2024
Coach Deane was everyone's coach, regardless of whether you played for him or not. And, if you were on his "team," and I am proud to say that my family was, he was there for you, showing up, seeming to understand the impact of his presence. He and Mrs. Deane came to support us when our Dad passed in 2018. Just seeing them meant the world. Thank you for the powerful example you set, Coach. You made us all want to play harder and better in life.
William Ricks
February 5, 2024
I was one of Coach Deane's first students in Waverly, VA at Annie B. Jackson Elementary School where he took his first teaching assignment. He was a Giant of a man -figuratively and literally. Whenever my friends and I would see Coach Deane at events, he would tell people that our group broke him into teaching. Coach Deane did not stay in Sussex long, but during his visits back to Sussex Central as a basketball official, we would greet one another and share our remembrances of old Annie B. and the campus with its wooden buildings. I pray that the Deane family look to God for their strength and the understanding to get them through this phase of life. Coach Deane will live forever in the lives of the many people he touched.
Felicia Bishop
February 5, 2024
You were special to us Coach Deane. I will never forget the memories we shared in the classroom. Thank you for everything! A TRUE LEGEND!
Lydia Joe-Hill
February 5, 2024
To the family of Coach, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Coach Dean was my professor at VSU back in 1978. Everyone loved coach because he was always smiling, joking & down to earth. I last saw him at the rehab center when my mom was there from October Thru December & I met his wife & son there . I always stopped by his room to chat & he always thanked me for stopping by. Once or twice he would ask me to look up the college basketball, football & WTA rankings & results & he kept a sheet with his written stats. I was in disbelief when I heard he had passed as he was always cheerful, humble & in good spirits. He would often say his mind wasn’t what it used to be but clearly I noticed it often was.
Doward Scott
February 5, 2024
A wonderful Father ,Coach and Mentor. Coach Harold Dean ,Sr . This man was like a father to so many of us at VSU and even more to me . Meet him as a little kid and was amazed at his character and statue. His presence would light up a room and his positive attitude made you want to work hard as a player and student. I will miss you Coach thank you for being one of the best parts of my life and at VSU. Love you Coach.. You will be heavily missed..
Teresa, Curtis & Osmar Staples
February 5, 2024
To the Family :
We are deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Mr. Deane/Coach. He will always remain in our hearts with fond memories of our great times together at UVA basketball games. We pray that God will grant you strength and comfort during this time. Our deepest condolences and prayers for all of you.❤
Alethia Spraggins
February 5, 2024
Goodbye to a friend for a lifetime
Alethia Spraggins
Bernard Duncan
February 5, 2024
I was 54 years old when I went back to school. Coach Dean happened to my teacher in a physical education class. Mind you, I had not seen him since I left high school in 1977, that I recall. When, I must have been that impressionable because when he looked at me, and I at him he said " Umhu...I remember you. You from Bluestone." I said, "Yes sir! I remember you too." He replied, "you were a bad boy. You could shoot that jumper." I smiled and sat down to make sure no one was in my way of seeing him. He was a great man. I will miss shaking his wrist and his strong but humble presence. Take your rest in Paradise.
Bernard Duncan
Tony Davis
February 5, 2024
God bless cousin and coach from your cousin tony
Elizabeth ("Liz") Slate
February 5, 2024
I met Coach Dean back in the late 80's on the softball field, through my husband, John Slate, who was an umpire with USSSA. Coach Dean umpired many of my games back in the day, and I always loved having him behind the plate. At the coaches/umpires meeting at the plate before games, he would always say, "Now, I have a big strike zone and everything outside is a strike." I always got a chuckle out of that, while the opposing team would panic a little. Ha-ha! I loved talking to Coach at the ballfield and at various VA USSSA Hall of Fame Induction ceremonies. RIP, Coach Dean!
Liz Slate
(Rev) Harrilene Simmons Shackelford
February 4, 2024
I have known Harold all of my life because our families were very close starting with his grandparents, mom, aunts, uncles & cousins. We frequently visited their homes, attended church together, sang together, many fond memories that I hold dear. He was always a good guy & loved by many. God used him to positively impact many young people’s lives. Praying God will bless his family & friends with peace, comfort & strength!
Michael Piercy
February 4, 2024
To the Family,
Grief can be so hard, however our special memories help us cope. Coach Dean leaves us with a rich educational legacy and memories that will be etched in our hearts forever. Remembering the family today and always. May the peace of God give you comfort during this time of bereavement.
India Dodson Rives
February 4, 2024
In this difficult time, praying the Lord will comfort you with the peace only he can give.
Edward Barlow
February 4, 2024
My deepest condolences to the Dean family. I first met Dean the Summer of 1958 when we were students at Virginia State College. He was everyone's friend. As scholarship athletes we partnered together sweeping Daniel Hall's gymnasium floor where he tormented me by constantly singing his signature song "Rollover Beethoven" from which he earned his nickname. He will truly be remembered as one of Virginia State's greatest basketball players.
Eddie Barlow
Rev. Vance Jones
February 4, 2024
Coach Dean was a true man among men in the community! As a professor and coach he touched the lives of so many young men and women at VSU and the community He brought the best out of everyone he met. COACH rest in Peace See you on the other side! Rev. Vance Jones
Tina Jones
February 4, 2024
You inspired so many of us. Thank you for being such a great human being. May your memory live through us all! Rest in Peace Coach Deane ❤
Jimmy Lewis
February 4, 2024
I was a VSC/VSU classmate and friend of Harold “Beethoven” Deane. He was a star basketball player at State, but he was, also, my teammate on State’s Track & Field Team. Harold acquired his nickname “Beethoven,” because in 1957, when we were freshmen at State, he sang what was then Chuck Berry’s hit song “Roll Over Beethoven.” Through the years. Harold and I always enjoyed seeing each at State’s Homecomings, and the conversations ensued. My friend will be missed.
May the God of love and hope bless and sustain the Deane family.
Jimmy Lewis ‘62
Keith Jackson
February 4, 2024
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Rebecca Farrior
February 4, 2024
Thelma Bonita and Harold jr. You are all in our prayers. Coach was a hardworking family man who loved his family. Always had words of encouragement. I use to walk to vsu to and from truth drive one summer when our car was broke down and when he would see me passing ettrick supermarket he would offer me a ride. He was a respectful and dignified family man and believed in higher education. Much love to his family. Becky and James Farrior, Tanisha,P,Matt
Michael Riley
February 4, 2024
I loved Coach Deane, he was my bero.
Miriam Hughey-Guy
February 4, 2024
Sending our deepest sympathies to Mrs. Deane, Sr. and the family. Coach Deane touched so many lives especially PE Majors and basketball players. Coach RIEP❤Miriam Hughey-Guy and Al Guy
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