Judith Rae (Peterson) Dean, 78, of Centralia, went suddenly to be with the Lord on April 25, 2023. She was born March 13, 1945 in Minot, North Dakota, to Christ and Faye Peterson. In 1965, Judy married her high school sweetheart, Larry Dean, on Dec. 26, and they celebrated 58 years together.
Judy is survived and will be greatly missed by her husband, Larry Dean; two children, Paul (Erika) Dean and David (Jana) Dean; grandchildren, Samuel (Reagan) Dean, Olivia Dean, Wilson Dean and Ava Dean; sister, JoAnn Hemenway; brother, Wes (Kay) Peterson; and sister, Janet (Chris) Burt; along with numerous nieces and nephews.
She grew up on a farm in North Dakota and eventually moved to Centralia, Washington, where she attended school and graduated from Centralia High School. She then attended Centralia College for her associate degree and then Central Washington University until she married Larry. Larry was called to serve in the Army and they moved to Fitchburg, Massachusetts. After Larry was sent to Vietnam, Judy moved back to Centralia where she had her first son, Paul. After Vietnam, Larry, Judy and Paul moved to Hawaii where Larry finished his tour of duty. In Hawaii, Judy had a daughter, Krista Rae Dean, who passed away at birth.
They returned to Cheney, Washington, where Judy had her second son, David, and worked at raising her sons. Her family was her passion and she was a devoted wife and mother. She worked for the Agnew Corporation as a secretary and then for 17 years as a paraeducator at Centralia High School, where she retired in 2008. She enjoyed gardening, traveling, German chocolate cake and all activities with family and friends.
Judy was known as a caring, gentle and fun soul and everyone who entered the Dean home were welcome and shown love, laughter and joy. Judy was a fantastic mother, but her passion was her grandchildren, and she really enjoyed being a grandmother. She never missed an opportunity to support any sporting or special events her children and grandchildren had. Every family member adored and loved her immensely.
Judy loved the Lord. She was actively engaged in church throughout her life and devoted to her family and friends. She will be remembered for her sweet smile and caring nature.
Judy's parents, Christ and Faye Peterson, and daughter, Krista Dean, preceded her in death, where she has joined them in the presence of the Lord.
Services and a celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. June 24 at Calvary Chapel in Centralia.
