Harold 'Dean' Lewis of Tyler, Texas passed peacefully on May 13, 2023 after a brief illness at the age of 86. Dean was born at home to George and Gertie Belle Lewis on August 13, 1936 in Talco, Texas, where he developed a strong appreciation for the outdoors along with siblings, Charles and Alton.
From an early age, Dean found enjoyment in gardening, fishing, caring for animals and spending time outdoors. Upon graduation from Talco High School in 1954, he worked at Lone Star Steel until enlisting in the U.S. Army in 1959. He proudly served at Ft. McNair in Washington, DC as an administration specialist before being Honorably discharged in June 1961. Returning to Texas, He remained in the Army reserves until 1965 while also embarking on a career at Kelly-Springfield Tire Company in Tyler. Though his career took him to the city, he never lost his connection to the country life that he cherished. Dean retired as soon as he could to wrangle cows, ride horses, build fence, cut hay and enjoy his family. Throughout his life, Dean remained deeply committed to his values. He was a man of few words, great integrity, a gentle spirit with a very tender heart. The man called husband, Daddy, Dean, Paw Paw and friend is now made new and in the presence of Jesus and having that assurance we rejoice as we weep.
Dean leaves behind his devoted and loving wife, Linda, and 5 children; Lacretia Rowe and husband Gerard of Perdido Key, Florida; Deena Morgan and husband Gary of Tyler, Texas; Tammy Hathorn, Marvin Scarborough and Machel Scarborough of Tyler, Texas.
He was Pawpaw to 16 grandchildren and spouses; Joshua Hogan and Cyndi of Austin, Texas; Kaitlin Jones and Seth of Tallahassee, Florida; Grant Hogan and Angelle of New Orleans, La.; Haley DeZelle and Joe of Highland Village, Texas; Bradi-Kathryn Matthews and Stephen of Plano, Texas; Madison Morgan of Dallas, Texas; Braden Hathorn and Bailey of Tyler, Texas; Dalton Hathorn of Tyler, Texas; Taylor Scarborough, Jade Scarborough, Savannah Scarborough of Tyler, Texas; Kaylee Scarborough of Mexico; Cheyenne Scarborough and Tanner Scarborough of Tulsa, Oklahoma; Colter Scarborough and Christina of San Angelo, Texas. Dean was also blessed with 17 great grandchildren.
He will be fondly remembered as a lifelong hard worker with a big heart.
A celebration of life service for Dean will be held on Thursday, May 18, 2023 at 2 p.m. at Tyler Memorial Funeral Home. Visitation will precede the service at 1 p.m. Refreshments and visitation will also follow the graveside service.
In honor of who he was, friends and family are encouraged to come dressed in casual country attire and bring stories to share about Dean.
