Anyone who knew Dean was touched by his smile, kindness and mild temperament. He was non-confrontational, humble and truly loved people and cared about their feelings. As an only child, Dean was a caregiver and companion to his mother, father and grandmother, Lois Barnett, who lived with him. He was an avid dog lover, and if you knew him, you’ve no doubt heard him speak of his most recent dogs, Buddy and Dakota. Dean collected coins and firearms, and loved a good conversation about the history of guns.
Dean was born on September 4, 1965 to Gaye Barnett Nash and Thomas H. Kelley in Birmingham, AL. After Dean graduated from Hewitt-Trussville High School in 1983, he went on to study at The University of Alabama at Birmingham. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree from the School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics at UAB, he began a career in medical diagnostics and research, kickstarting a 34-year career.
On November 6, 1989 Dean began working for LabCorp of America in Birmingham where he found his 2nd family. Dean was a Microbiology Technologist and loved his work. His co-workers have said that Dean was a friend, mentor and teacher. He was always approachable and would help with anything, all they had to do was ask. Dean was patient, never made anyone feel like they asked a stupid question, and he didn’t mind being interrupted to help. His co-workers knew they could go to Dean for guidance, and he made them feel at ease.
There were times in Dean’s life that others didn’t understand his love for his LabCorp family and tried to persuade him to find another job for more money, a shorter commute, or some other reason they thought would be better. But Dean never waivered in his choice to work for LabCorp. He loved Microbiology and the work that he performed, but it was the team of amazing people he worked with who kept him there. They have called, visited, and checked on him during his illness as much as Dean’s biological family. One of his co-workers posted a message on Facebook that says it best, “Being a real family isn’t in the DNA, it’s in the HEART.”
Dean was predeceased by his father, mother, step-father (Ronnie Nash) and all of his grandparents. He is survived by a host of cousins who all love him, and a family of co-workers who love him too.
Visitation will be held at Ridout’s Trussville Chapel at 11:00am Tuesday, May 24, 2022 with a graveside service to follow at Jefferson Memorial Gardens. Because of his love for his LabCorp family, Dean will be laid to rest wearing a LabCorp Lab Coat and name tag that were generously provided by the company. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Dean’s name to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, or an organization of your choice.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ridoutstrussvillechapel.com for the Kelley family.
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