John Jackson Dean, Jr.

John Jackson “Jackie” Dean, Jr., age 85, of Louisburg and Orlando, FL, passed away peacefully April 26, 2022 in Raleigh.

          Jackson was born November 10, 1936 in Franklin County, the son of John Jackson Dean and Belle House Dean. He graduated from Edward Best High School and received a degree in chemistry from Wake Forest University in 1959.

          Jackson was a remarkable man with many accomplishments over his lifetime. He was a father, husband, businessman, licensed airline pilot, licensed commercial builder, licensed boat captain, local philanthropist and was unforgettable to everyone who knew him. Jackson influenced many young people during his career, encouraging them to reach their full potential. Quiet generosity came naturally to him as he graciously donated his time and financial support to both individuals in need as well as institutions. As a member of the Louisburg College Board of Trustees, he led the fundraising drive to build a new classroom building, a chapel and an auditorium in the early 1980’s. He served as president of the North Carolina Poultry Federation. Jackson had a lifetime of giving his time and talents to his community.

          His success as an entrepreneur began after his graduation from Wake Forest University. From his father’s modest business, he built Dean Farms egg processing plant and employed many people in the community with whom be continued lifelong friendships. He founded other companies such as Camelot Farms, Franklin Farms, Tarheel Brokers, The Way Station Restaurant, Dean Real Estate and Tri-Venture Marketing. Headquartered in Florida, Tri-Venture Marketing was his most notable business success.  He and a handful of partners formed and grew a food marketing company that served the southeastern United States and beyond. Jackson served as chairman of the board for Tri-Venture until his retirement.

          Jackson worked hard but always made time to enjoy life and the people around him. He was passionate about the things he loved, especially flying, horses, boating and traveling. He had a special love for children as they did for him.  Even in recreation he always pursued excellence.

          Those who knew him considered him to be a gracious host and Jackson never met a stranger. He spent his retirement with his wife Ann between North Carolina and Florida, sharing hospitality with friends and family. He was a loving son, husband, father and grandfather.

           Jackson was preceded in death by his parents and his first wife, Shirley Catlette Dean. He is survived by his wife, Margaret Ann Merritt Dean; daughter, Mary Martha Elis and her husband Ward of Raleigh; son, John Jackson Dean III and daughter in-law, Patti Dean of Louisburg; grandchildren, Jackson Elis, Zachary Elis and Leo Dean. He is also survived by his sister in-law, Lou Merritt; nephew, Lucas Merritt Bogner and his wife, Ashley; niece, Britta Merritt Bogner and her son, Julian Espana; brother in-law, Ditchie Edwards and nephews, Scottie Edwards and Steven Edwards.

          A funeral service will be held 2 pm Wednesday, May 4, 2022 at Louisburg Baptist Church. Burial will follow at the Dean Family Cemetery on Hwy 56 East. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Franklin County Library Fund (memo: Jackson Dean), c/o Holt Kornegay, 906 N. Main St. Louisburg, NC 27549.

The family expresses their sincere thanks to Jackson’s caregivers throughout this journey.  

          Arrangements are by Strickland Funeral Home & Crematory, Louisburg, www.stricklandfuneralhome.net.

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