James Derry "Jay" Dean

James Derry “Jay” Dean, 80 of Lake Charles, died Friday, February 4, 2022, at a local nursing home.  James was born in Lafayette on August 22, 1941.  He attended a private religious school.  After graduating he served his country in the US Army/Navy and did two tours in Vietnam.

After the military he work for the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office for 16 years.  He then worked for Exxon as a mechanic for a few years.  He was a certified mechanic for 50 years with 2 Associate degrees from Sowela.  Later, he worked at Auto Zone as a Technician doing computer testing for parts needed. 

James loved football, NASCAR, and pool.  He was a die-hard Notre Dame Fan; and played pool in the BCA League of Lake Charles for as long as anyone can remember.  He was of the Catholic faith and knew the importance of family and friends.

James is survived by his wife, Kathleen Ann Kracher Dean; son, Peter L. Dean of Lafayette; two daughters, Spring Guerrero of Sulphur and Crystal Dean of Pasadena, TX; two grandchildren, Kaitlyn Nicole Dean and Cole Patrick Sullivan, both of Lake Charles; friend, Brett Romero of Sulphur; stepchildren, Elliott J. Petten (Lindsay) of Southern California; and his mother-in-law, Avis Marie Hamilton of Southern California.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul, and Beulah Thibodeaux.