Dean graduated from Hirsch High School in Chicago, Il, in 1951 and later from Northwestern University (Chicago, IL) before commissioning with the United States Navy in 1955. In that same year, Dean was united in marriage to Shirley Ann Newnam.
Dean served as a naval aviator and instructor for 21 years before retiring as a Lt Commander in 1976. During his naval career, Dean was attached to a number of F4 fighter squadrons on various aircraft carriers including the U.S.S. Ticonderoga, the U.S.S. Oriskany, and U.S.S. Constellation. The family’s favorite duty station was Guantanamo Bay, Cuba where they spent 3 years from 1970-1973.
Following retirement from the U. S. Navy, Dean went on to pursue an MBA from Memphis State University (now the University of Memphis), where he later taught classes in real estate and finance. Dean was a family man who loved to golf and travel.
Dean is preceded in death by his parents, Dean and Lucille Drewry. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Shirley Drewry, 3 children, Sharon Drewry of Bartlett, TN; Greg (Jacky) Drewry of Oostburg, WI; and Deana Drewry (Tracy Powell) of Nashville, TN and 7 grandchildren Cory Drewry, Chicago, Il; Garret (Allison)Drewry Belfair, WA; Nathan (Anna) Drewry Fort Irwin, CA; Drew Powell, Nashville, TN; Patrick Powell Nashville/Fort Worth and Alisha Jones (David) Tuscaloosa, AL. He is also survived by several great grandchildren.
A graveside service for Dean will be held Saturday, December 17, 2022 from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM at Highland Cemetery, 598 Highland, Greenfield, TN 38230.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MemphisFuneralGermantownParkway.com for the Drewry family.
