William Eric Dean

Funeral services for William Eric Dean, of Longview, will be held at 2:00 pm, Saturday, October 28, 2023, in the Chapel of McWhorter Funeral Home with Steve Vogl officiating. Visitation will be held, 6:00 pm- 8:00 pm, Tuesday, October 24, 2023, at McWhorter Funeral Home. Eric was born on December 2, 1975, in Tyler, Texas to Terry Joe Dean and Linda Dean Corvin and passed from this life on October 19, 2023, in Longview, Texas surrounded by his family. Eric was a devoted father, an extraordinary cook, passionate sports fan, and left this world too soon at the age of 47. He touched the lives of many with his kind heart, wit, warm smile, and unwavering love for his family. His legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know him. As a father, Eric was a shining example of love and dedication. He poured his heart and soul into raising his four children, providing unwavering support throughout their lives. His children were his pride and joy, and he cherished every moment spent with them. In the kitchen, Eric was nothing short of a culinary artist. His passion for cooking was evident in every dish he prepared. He delighted friends and family with mouthwatering creations, turning ordinary meals into extraordinary feasts. He even went on to create a one-of-a-kind restaurant, “Mi Casita,” where his love for cooking became a unique gift to the community. Sports played a significant role in Eric’s life. He was a loyal fan of the Dallas Cowboys, Dallas Mavericks, and the Texas Rangers. His enthusiasm for the games was infectious, making game days memorable and filled with laughter and camaraderie. Eric was an avid reader, a lover of history, and a music aficionado. He could often be found traveling with his children, enjoying the latest concerts with his friends, or jamming to the tunes of the Grateful Dead. His intellectual curiosity and appreciation for music enriched his life and the lives of those around him. Despite his talents and passions, Eric remained humble and down-to-earth. He possessed a laid-back personality that put people at ease in his presence. His compassion and loyalty were unparalleled, and he offered a helping hand to anyone in need. His kind heart and gentle nature left an indelible mark on all those who had the privilege of knowing him. Eric was a testament to love, compassion, and the importance of family. Some of his favorite times were holidays and birthdays spent with family where he was the star of the show in the kitchen. Embarking on new adventures with his four children was a highlight of his life, in which they made unforgettable memories that they will cherish forever. He will be deeply missed by all who know him, and his memory and legacy will continue to inspire us to live with the same love, humility, and devotion that he showed throughout his life. Those left to cherish his memory are his children, Mahri Allen Dean, Paisley Brooke Dean, Charlotte Paige Dean, and Jex Noah Dean; mother, Linda Dean Corvin (Michael); sister, Liz Couch (Randy); special brother, Brian Light MKCS Coast Guard (Regina); nieces, Lauren Couch, Brooke Couch, Desiree Pierce, Catherine Gifford, Emily Light, and Lynsey Light; nephews, Adam Light, and Adam Osha; aunts, Ginger Kay Cargal, and Cheryl Allgood (Robert); uncles, Billy Ray Dean (Brenda), William G. “Bud” Light (Kris), and Robert “Bobby” Light; other special family members, Mary Hawthorne, Tabitha Allen, Alicia Trimble, Teri Roberts, and Michael Hawthorne; lifelong friends, Joey Fenlaw, Brandon Henson (Samantha), Brad Conaway, Kevin Conaway, Scott Ragland, Jennifer, Annebell, and Fletcher Forsythe, Katie Case and Courtney Case; and numerous cousins. He is preceded in death by his father, Terry Joe Dean; grandparents, Bill and Virginia Dean; grandmother, Dorothy Light Wooten; uncle, James Cargal; and cousins, Michael Hutchinson, and Stephanie Hutchinson Barton. We are truly humbled by the overwhelming outpouring of love, support, and heartfelt gestures from our cherished family, dear friends, and the entire community. Our hearts are deeply moved, and we believe Eric's heart is equally touched by this incredible display of affection. In honor of Eric’s strong advocation for his children, in lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be sent to East Texas CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), in memory of Eric Dean, at P.O. Box 3839 Longview, Texas 75606. Please visit Eric’s online registration book at www.mcwhorterfh.com to leave a memory for the family.

William Eric Dean

December 2, 1975 - October 19, 2023