Harold R. Dean

Harold R. Dean, 61, was the son of Wilma and Raymond Dean in Newport, Rhode Island, and went home to be with his Lord and heavenly family on January 2, 2026. He leaves behind to mourn the loss of his kind heart, generosity, sweet spirit, and corny jokes his mother and father, Wilma and Raymond Dean of Portsmouth, VA; his loving sister, Ruby Rea, and her husband, Kenneth Rea; his baby sister, Jeannie Griffith, and her husband, Tim Griffith; his nieces and nephews, Kera Rea, Brittany Owen, Joshua Griffith, John Griffith, Aaron Griffith, Nathan Tin’uviel; and a whole host of family, as well as friends who were also family to him. Growing up, Harold was part of a proud military family, often relocating all around the United States. He enjoyed the beauty of Hawaii, the wilderness of Alaska, the treehouse in Georgia, the beaches of Virginia and North Carolina, and summer vacations and large family reunions in Northern New York. Harold spent most of his years in Portsmouth, VA, but his heart was always in Sackets Harbor, NY, and the Outer Banks of North Carolina, where he could often be found behind the lens of his favorite camera. Harold loved viewing life from behind the lens. He could frequently be seen riding his self-built bicycle—which made him tower above the crowds—while photographing the fireworks in Portside of Portsmouth, VA. Over the years, Harold held several jobs and had many varying interests. He worked as a courier for the school system and later in a lumber yard, where his antics were often the highlight of the day for his coworkers. Using his knowledge of woodworking, Harold frequently made custom gifts for those he was close to, including a jewelry box, shelves, cards, and even a custom California king bed. Later in life, he threw himself into masonry and landscaping, which he excelled at and loved. He enjoyed tinkering and working in his yard, growing plants, and creating an outdoor space for family to gather. He built a custom deck for his mother to enjoy sitting out on and listening to the birds. In her front yard, he built her a wishing well, much like the one at his Grandma Reed’s place in Northern New York. Harold shared a close connection with his Grandma Reed and often spoke of looking forward to seeing her again in heaven. Harold was much beloved by the children and parents in his community. Each season, he decorated the house for all to see as they passed by. At Halloween, the kids knew he could always be counted on to put on a real show. Harold even built his niece Kera a coffin so she could join him in the fun. One year, a young mother came by with her daughter looking for him, but by then Harold’s health was in decline. Even so, he went out to greet them and share some candy he had on hand. The mother remembered him from her own childhood and wanted him to meet her daughter. As always, Harold shared a corny joke and a bit of laughter. Of all the wonderful things that encompassed who Harold was, it was his love for his family that shone brightest. He loved his mother deeply and took care of her and the home she resides in. Each week, he bought her fresh flowers just to make her smile. He was a wonderful brother, son, uncle, and friend. He was a light in this world, and his love will continue to shine through those he loved. As he grew older, Harold began a deeper walk with the Lord and often shared his faith with those close to him. Harold will be missed more than words can express, but we know that one day, we will see him again. A memorial service will be held at 11 am Saturday, January 31, 2026 at Jackson Memorial Baptist Church