Mr. Charlie Robert Dean Sr.

 Deacon Charlie Robert Dean, Sr. was born on January 24, 1937 in Grantville, Meriwether County, Georgia to Mrs. Sophia Dean and Mr. Charles Rosser.  Charlie was affectionately known by all where he grew up simply as “Charlie Robert” and locally as “Dean.”  In the mid-1950’s, Charlie Robert left his family in Grantville and traveled throughout the State of Georgia helping to construct and build schools. His best friend, Andrew Lynch, came along on the journey with him.  It was during the building of the Bethune Elementary and Junior High School in Charlton County that he met the love of his life, Ms. Viola M. Walker.   Charlie and Viola would begin a love affair that lasted over 64 years.   His friend, Andrew, would go on to marry Viola’s sister, Maxine.  Charlie finally put roots down in Folkston, Georgia and for about 67 years, had been proud to call Folkston his home.  Six beautiful and successful children were born to the union of Charlie Robert and Viola.

Deacon Charlie Robert Dean, Sr was educated in the public school system of Meriwether County, Georgia.  At an early age, he displayed an innate aptitude for math and this skill enabled him to embark upon a career in the construction industry.  Although he initially worked in building and construction, Charlie honed his skills to become a highly competitive and sought-after concrete finisher and brick mason.  Because of his ability to communicate and comprehend detailed construction plans and mechanical drawings, he was promoted and became one of the first African American Foremans at multiple construction firms in Jacksonville, Florida.  As Foreman, he led construction projects for Dickerson Construction Company and Warren Brothers Construction Company throughout the State of Florida.  Charlie imparted his knowledge freely and served as a mentor for the members of his team, as well as, many other individuals in his industry.

After many years of traveling and working throughout the State of Florida, in 1995 at the age of 58, when most people were on the verge of retiring, Charlie decided to open a construction firm of his own, C&D Concrete, Inc., based out of Jacksonville, FL.  C&D Concrete, Inc. was an approved minority contractor with the City of Jacksonville as well as several Departments and Offices within the city.  C&D Concrete, Inc. received many accolades for its quality work and was recognized by the City of Jacksonville as one of the Best Minority Contractors in Florida.  

God and Family were at the center of Charlie’s life.  He had a great sense of humor with a ready smile.  He and Viola enjoyed cooking and hosting large gatherings.  They both embodied the scripture, “To Whom Much is Given, Much is Required.”   Charlie and Viola consistently opened their home to all who were in need.  Anyone could show up, at any time, and immediately feel welcomed.  Viola was an exceptional cook and her skills were equally matched 

by Charlie.  People would come from miles around to visit and sample some of Charlie’s famous BBQ.  Charlie accepted Christ at an early age and became a member of First United CME Church, Lone Oak, Georgia. After relocating to Folkston, he joined Mt. Carmel Baptist Church.  He was ordained as a Deacon for the church on February 6, 1977 under the leadership of Reverend H. L. Baker.  Charlie diligently served in many leadership capacities including the Deacon Board (a former Chairman) and Trustee Board.

Deacon Charlie Robert Dean, Sr., age 84, passed away at Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside Hospital, Jacksonville, Florida, on Friday, February 5, 2021.

He was preceded in death by his beloved and devoted wife of over 63 years, Elder Viola W. Dean (2019); his mother, Sophie Dean (1966); his father, Charles Rosser, his stepfather, Gene Robert Rosser (2000); his brother-in-Law, Andrew Lynch (2003), and his special nephew, Fredrick E. Lynch (2017).

Mr. Dean leaves to celebrate his life and legacy:  a cherished sister Frances Rosser (Grantville, GA); a devoted sister-in-law Maxine Lynch; and six children:  Cassandra Walker (Conyers, GA); Carolyn D. Hall (Michael), Douglasville, GA; Charlie R. Dean, Jr. (Nadajalah), Dallas, TX; Michael J. Dean (Jeannette), Conyers, GA; Kevin L. Dean (Carolina), Gaithersburg, MD; and Darryl D. Dean (Sandra), Alpharetta, GA.  He also leaves to cherish his memories, 16 grandchildren:  Christopher A. Walker; Alicia P Walker; Gerald Walker; Justin Hall; Taneshala Hall; Erica D. Knight (Nitis); Megan E. Dean; Melanie J. Dean; Mallory J. Dean; Jarrett Dean; Marissa D. Dean; Ayesha Dean; Darryl Dean, II; Tiffanni Dean; Dr. Kimberlye Dean; Victoria Dean; and four Great Grandchildren:  Kordell Z. Knight; Kennedy J. Walker; Cameron J. Walker; and Samara Interman. Special nieces and nephews include Cynthia L. Dixon (Derrell), Atlanta, GA; Melvin C. Lynch; Glenda L. Watson (Ernest), Jacksonville, FL; and Cedric Rosser (Nicole), Peachtree City, GA; and many, many loving relatives and friends.  

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