Marilyn Dean's Obituary
Marilyn Dean Obituary
Marilyn Dean was born June 14, 1949 in Harvey, Illinois, the fifth of seven children of the late
Reverend Willie B. and Mary Halbert. Marilyn accepted Christ at a young age and used God’s word
as her guide in all aspects of her life. She was a devoted member of Daniel’s Chapel A.M.E. Zion
Church in Phoenix, Illinois under the leadership of Reverend Henry E. Miller.
Marilyn graduated from Thornton Township High School in 1966 where she was an exemplary
student. As a poet, author, playwright and songwriter, Marilyn was a lifelong learner completing self-
studies in many academic areas.
Marilyn was joined in holy matrimony to Melvin Dean in 1968. To this union two children, Melvin
Edwin Dean and Roslyn Marie Dean-Sanders, were born. Marilyn was an exceptional mother and
devoted her life to her children and grandchildren.
Marilyn was employed for over 30 years at Acme Steel Company in Riverdale, Illinois as a Human
Resources Manager. Upon retirement, she relocated to Lawrenceville, Georgia where her light, love
and poetry touched many lives. At her passing, Marilyn was a devoted member of Berean Christian
Church Gwinnett under the leadership of Dr. Kevin B. Lee.
Marilyn’s love of words went back as far as she could remember and she chose poetry as the primary
means in which she expressed this love. She published three books of poetry: ‘My Story..My Way.
Living Life Full Circle’, ‘Public Pathways: A Book of Poetic Reflections’, and ‘Paper Voices’. Marilyn
was called upon to recite her poetry at countless programs, homegoings, church services and
events. Marilyn was featured on local radio programs and in newspaper articles. Marilyn also
penned plays, songs and stories. Her writings were highly regarded and touched the lives of so
many.
Another passion of Marilyn’s was her beautiful flower garden. She spent countless hours tending to
an array of different flowers and plants that she cultivated in her backyard. It was her slice of paradise
and was greatly admired. Inspired by its beauty, a local artist captured her garden in an oil painting
that was presented to Marilyn shortly before her passing.
Marilyn was truly a friend to all. There was nothing she wouldn’t do to help those in need. She was an
amazing example of selflessness. Marilyn departed this earthly realm on Sunday, October 5, 2025.
She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers Richard and Brad (De Lois), and her sister
Rosetta (Lester).
She leaves to cherish her memory, her son Melvin E. Dean (Coretta), her daughter Roslyn M.
Sanders (Walter), her brothers Charles Halbert (Willie) and Melvin Halbert (Linda), her sister and best
friend Gwen Lewis (Raymond), a host of grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and many nieces,
nephews, cousins, relatives and friends.
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Marilyn Dean, please visit our floral store.
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