Lonnie "Jimmy" Dean

Lonnie James “Jimmy” Dean, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and uncle, passed away surrounded by the most love anyone could possibly receive on August 27, 2022.

Jim was born on June 7, 1946 in Brownwood, Texas and grew up in Fort Worth before settling in Arlington, where he raised his children for the past 45 years. Jim also spent time at his family’s farm in Stamford, where he made treasured memories. In his youth, Jim learned to cook from his mother and to shoot from his father, and he grew up to excel at both.

After serving in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, Jim eventually began a career with the United States Postal Service, starting as a carrier and working his way up to management. After leaving the USPS, Jim was able to enjoy a long retirement, with lots of time spent with his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Jim was an honest, loving, supportive, hard-working man who always strived to do the right thing and always worked hard to take care of those around him. He liked to fish, he could fix pretty much anything (except plumbing), and he loved a good chicken-fried steak. Jim knew his way around a gun, around a car, and around the kitchen. Jim’s favorite holiday was Christmas, and he loved to fill his home with as many Christmas decorations as possible—and when he ran out of space to put new decorations, he’d just buy a new table to make room. Jim loved God and was always thankful for his many blessings, knowing that God would always take care of him and his family.

Above all, Jim was a family man. He enjoyed nothing more than spending time with his wife, kids, and grandkids. His three daughters—Stephanie, Courtney, and Grace—will each tell you that he was the best father they ever could’ve asked for. He was always their biggest supporter, no matter what, and he always made sure they knew how much he loved them and how proud he was of them. His daughters will miss their daily calls with him, making him laugh, and being able to tell him how much they love him. While there are no words to adequately express how much he means to them, they know they are blessed to have a dad whose absence is so deeply felt. Jim’s wife was his best friend, and she knows he’ll be waiting to welcome her home one day.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 32 years, Laura; his daughters Stephanie, Courtney, and Grace; son-in-law Warren; grandchildren Maddi, Parker, and Kade; sister-in-law Kathy Boling; and numerous nieces, nephews, family members, and friends. Jim was preceded in death by his mother, father, and three siblings. Loved ones should honor his legacy by hugging their family tight, maintaining their faith in God, never being afraid to laugh, and always buying an extra Christmas decoration.

Jim’s service will be held at Emerald Hills Funeral Home & Memorial Park on Saturday, September 3, 2022. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m., with the funeral service starting at noon.