Marial Dean was born in Meriwether County to the late William Henry and Marie Caldwell.   She was one of 9 children.  She attended the Meriwether County Schools, and joined the Bethlehem Baptist Church at an early age.

  On July 18, 1946 she married the late Ector Dean.  During their sixty-seven years of marriage their family grew tremendously.  They were blessed with 12 children, 27 grandchildren, and 47 great grandchildren.  One son, Joe Nathan, preceded her in death.

  Marial joined the St. Paul C.M.E. Church and served faithfully until her health declined.  She was a member of the Senior choir and the Missionary Society.  She made sure her children and grandchildren were also active in the church.

  Marial worked for Tidwell Nurseries, Inc.  for 30+ years.  After retirement, she went on the help the Tidwell Family in their home until her husband’s health began to fail.  Marial was known throughout the community for her lovely flowers and her delicious cakes and pies.

  Loving memories will forever live in the hearts of her children:  Rose Marie Dean, James Dean, Sr., Johnny Dean, Sr., Clarence (Sherry) Dean, Jerry Dean, Barbara (Roy) Phillips, Mary (Curtis) Amey, Ernestine Owens, Samuel (Tonya) Dean, Patrick Dean, and Sonja Dean; 27 grandchildren, 47 great grandchildren; one sister, Mary Thomas; a host of nieces and nephews; and special friends: Charles Pollard, Valerie Sanders, Alma Clements, Jeanette Lowe, and Shirley Louder.