Rev. James Ira Dean age 90 went to meet Jesus and his loving wife Lillian (Lilly) May 5, 2004 after a brief illness at Berea Hospital.

Ira was the son of the late Hiram and Lucy Dean of Jackson County Kentucky. He was a member of the Galilee Baptist Church and a member of the Masonic Lodge. Ira was a founding member and pastor of the Dixie Park Baptist until his retirement in 1993.

Ira is survived by one daughter Vick (Robert) Lakes of Richmond. 5 grandsons and 12 great grandchildren: William C. (Tonya) Dean and their children Kelle, Krystal, Courtney, William. Bradley (Rayanna) Dean their children Lynsey and Bradley all of Dayton, OH. Jeff D. (Tena) Gabbard their children Shelby and Sydni. Bryan (Malinda) Gabbard and their daughter Beth. Ben M. Gabbard and his daughters Savanna and Kelcee all of Berea. Ira is also survived by one sister Celia Kirby, and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his loving wife and parents Ira was preceded in death two children Bill J. Dean and Betty Faye Dean, and several brothers and sisters. To all that knew and loved Ira knew of his love and devotion fro the Lord. His ministry continued through his radio ministry and preaching the gospel until his home going on May 5th.His love for his family showed through all that he did and his love for the Lord touched all people that met him. Though we rejoice in his homecoming he will be greatly missed.

Funeral services will be Saturday May 8, 2004 at 2:00 p.m. at the Lakes Funeral Home, with Rev. Larry Harris and Rev. Cecil Burns officiating. Burial will be in the Berea Cemetery. Pallbearers are Lloyd Lamb, Roy McCollum, Clarence Isaacs, Granville Isaacs, Keith Miller, Jackie Cope and Brian Combs. Visitation will be Friday May 7, 2004 after 6:00 p.m. at the Lakes Funeral Home.