Dates
Aubrey Dean Williams Jr., born on September 20, 1942, passed away peacefully in his sleep on December 11, 2024, in Ralls, Texas, at the age of 82. Surely goodness and mercy have followed him all the days of his life.
Dean was born in San Angelo, Texas, to Aleene Smith Williams and Aubrey Dean Williams, Sr. Three years later, his younger brother, Ronnie, joined the family. The two brothers became known for their mischievous adventures as young boys, even sharing a bedroom until they left their childhood home. Dean attended Eldorado Junior High, and High School, where he proudly graduated with the Class of 1961. He was known in high school as a gifted athlete playing football, basketball, and track, even receiving a scholarship to play football until he sustained a knee injury his senior year.
After graduating high school, Dean traveled all over West Texas and the South Plains while working for the Southern Pacific Railroad. He later moved to San Angelo, where he began a career with the phone company, GTE. In 1971, Dean married Jacki Benedict, and the family relocated to Deming, New Mexico, where Dean owned and operated Williams Oil Company for a decade. During this time, they were blessed with the arrival of their daughter, Dena, in 1973.
In the 1980s, Dean returned to Texas and settled in Big Lake, resuming his work with GTE as the beloved "phone man." In 1990, a position with GTE brought him back to his hometown of Eldorado, where fate led him to meet the love of his life, Vickie Jones, on the dance floor at the Eldorado Rodeo. Their connection was instant and enduring, and after getting married in April of 1990, they joyfully welcomed their daughter, Corie, in 1991.
After a 38-year career with the telephone company, Dean retired from Verizon in 2010, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and hard work. In retirement, he remained active and engaged, driving countless miles for Schleicher County ISD and the Southwest Texas Electric Cooperative, where he took every opportunity to meet new friends and stay connected to his community.
Dean was a proud member of the Masonic Lodge for over 55 years, serving as Past Master in Deming, New Mexico, Big Lake, Texas, and Eldorado, Texas. Earlier in his life, he was a member of the Shriners and, in later years, an active member of the Lions Club, dedicating his time to serving his community. His deep commitment to his faith was reflected in his role as an Elder at the First Presbyterian Church of Eldorado, where he faithfully attended Sunday School and church every week for many decades.
Beyond his career and community involvement, Dean was a passionate team roper, a love that brought him immense joy and defined much of his life. He was certainly greeted in heaven by his cherished horses - Trey, Tuffy, Dollar, and Tooter - and his loyal dogs, Cowboy and Prissy.
He is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Vickie; his daughters, Dena (Dennis) Board of Deming, New Mexico, and Corie Williams of Lubbock, Texas; his brother, Ronnie (Jan) Williams of Fredericksburg, Texas; his granddaughter, Shayla (Abram) Rempel, and grandson, Stetson Holmes, both of Deming, New Mexico; his great-grandchildren, Cierra Williams and Logan Rempel; his nephew, Shannon Williams of Katy, Texas; his great-niece, Amber (Adam) Corona, and great-nephew, Clayton; and his beloved four-legged best friend, Belle.
He is preceded in death by his parents, his nephew, Shane Williams, his nephew, Levi Jones, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated caregivers at Ralls Rehab Ranch, Beyond Faith Hospice, Schleicher County Nursing Home, St. Gabriel’s Hospice, Shannon Hospital facilities, and Encompass Health. Their compassion, care, and unwavering attention provided comfort and peace during this journey.
A celebration of Dean’s life will take place on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at 1:30 PM at the First Presbyterian Church in Eldorado, Texas. In lieu of flowers, donations in Dean’s memory may be made to The First Presbyterian Church of Eldorado. Arrangements can also be made through Occasions Boutique & Blooms.