Obituary of Kathryn Henley Dean

“We are sad to announce the passing of Mary Kathryn (Henley) Dean, 94, of Monument, Colorado. She found peace on Wednesday, April 26, 2023 surrounded by her loved ones at her home. Kathryn was born in El Paso, Texas on November 21, 1928 to Oscar Barton and Lavender Mabel (Garner) Henley.

Kathryn grew up in Temple, Texas, graduating from Temple High School in 1945. She attended Temple Junior College while working as a clerk/typist part-time. Before having a chance to graduate, she was offered an opportunity to work as secretary to Representative R. Talasek in the House of Representatives in Austin, Texas where she remained for several years. She then moved to Washington DC to work as secretary to Senator P. Daniel. The love of her life brought her back to Texas in 1956. After 10 years of dating, Kathryn said “I do” to George Wesley (“Pete”) Dean, Jr. on December 21, 1956.

Kathryn took time to raise 3 children before going back to secretarial work in telecommunications for the next few decades. She did not retire until she was 82 years old. Kathryn found her friends in work, church and also community service organizations (Richardson Symphony League and Junior League of Richardson Texas). After her health began declining, at 90, she and George moved to Colorado to be near family.

Kathryn always had time for family and friends. Known as “Nana” to her family, she enjoyed holidays and made sure they were filled with laughter and love. She enjoyed dancing. She was also an avid Texas A & M University Aggie fan (“Gig ‘em!”).

Kathryn is survived by her husband, George Dean of Monument Colorado, her three children: Julie, Perry (wife Lori), and Randy (wife Sherri), 8 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and sister Elaine Irish (husband Bill).

Those who touch our lives, stay in our hearts forever. A private memorial service will be held, with interment at Fort Logan National Cemetery, Denver Colorado. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to her hospice team at Pikes Peak Palliative and Hospice Care. They cared for her with unmeasurable love and compassion.”