Funeral services for Howard Dean Pulley are scheduled on Friday, November 18, 2022, at 11:00 AM at Autry’s Carroll-Lehr Funeral Home in Athens, Texas officiated by his niece Rev. Kay Pulley. Visitation will be prior to the service at 10:00 with graveside service to follow at Athens City Cemetery.

Dean Pulley, born in Trinidad, Texas to Rev. Adith and Ida Pulley on August 13, 1925, died on November 10, 2022, at the age of ninety-seven.

Dean was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife of 61 years, Annette, in 2010; daughter-in-law, Joni Pulley; and brother/sister-in-law, Rev. Pete and Glenn Pulley.

Survivors include two sons: Mike Pulley and Nickey and Melissa Pulley

Six Grandchildren: Jennifer (Ashley) Williams, Will (Dorothy) Pulley, Zach Pulley, Preston (Jenna) Pulley, Caleb Pulley, Andrew (Danielle) Pulley

Thirteen Great-grandchildren: Macy, Will, Liam, Braxton, Anna, Audrey, Ella, Noah, Levi, Benjamin, Judah, Eden, and Ellie Grace.

Dean was raised in Trinidad, Texas until his senior year in high school when the family moved to Orange, Texas. He graduated from Orange High School in May 1943. In February 1944, he enlisted in the United States Army to serve his country during WWII until April 1946. He married the love of his life Annette on August 7, 1948. They spent over 61 years living in Trinidad and mostly Athens where Dean worked for Long Star Gas/Nipak until retirement. His strong work ethic and commitment to his family serve as an example for all who knew him.

Dean was well-loved and will be remembered for the countless hours he spent supporting his family and friends while they played their favorite sports. He was well-known during his retirement years for being an official volunteer greeter at Walmart where he visited with everyone, making many new friends. He was a member of First Baptist Church, Athens. He was baptized as an adult. He lived his life as a reflection of God’s saving Grace through Jesus.

Serving as pallbearers will be Ashley Williams, Will Pulley, Zach Pulley, Preston Pulley, Caleb Pulley and Andrew Pulley.

The family would like to express a sincere thank-you to those who offered friendship and care to our Dad/Papaw/Deano during his well-lived life: all the staff and friends at Arabella Assisted Living, UT Health Athens, Lakeland Medical and especially Dr. Chris Johnson.

Memorials can be made to Henderson Country Food Pantry.