Dean Lee Aldridge

Dean Lee Aldridge, age 67, passed away peacefully, leaving a legacy of love, generosity, and loyalty. He was born in Arlington, Virginia to Darold and Billie Jean (Cox) Aldridge. Darold’s work in the U.S. Government brought their family to Japan and Germany during Dean’s early childhood. Upon their return to the States, the family settled down in McLean, Virginia. Dean attended George

Mason University where he joined the TKE fraternity. In 1988, Dean left home to work on the modernization of ALCOA where he met his wife and felt God calling him to settle down in Tennessee. Together they raised a family, and Dean continued his work in the Innovation Corridor with a 35+ career as a Project Control Specialist.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Karen; his sons, Clay and Grayson (Jessa); daughter, Allison (Giulio); cherished grandson, Callan; sister, Dara; aunt, Mary Lou (Cox) Bishop; cousins Nita and Scott; step-brothers Darren and Guy. He is preceded by his loving parents, Darold and Billie Jean, in-laws, Robert and Aileen Anderson; step-mother Connie and step-sister Monique (Jamie).

As a friend, Dean was known for his generosity, as he found joy in supporting those around him, always striving to provide meaningful experiences and heartfelt gifts. In his early professional career, Dean was a member of the Jaycees service community, where he received many awards for his altruism, leadership, and dedication to others. With the advent of social media, Dean reconnected and enjoyed the company of many of his fraternity brothers both

old and new, and he was the life of the party to the very end.

As a father, Dean was heavily invested in his children who not only enrolled them in extracurricular activities but made time to be actively involved himself. Dean stepped out of his comfort zone to become their AYSO soccer coach and referee and Indian Guides / Princesses storyteller. His children feel eternally blessed to have experience his strong support and unconditional love.

Most importantly, as a Christian, Dean served the Lord as a Deacon, Elder, and Clerk of Session at Greenback First Presbyterian Church. He was known for frying catfish during the church’s regular fish fry socials, and many credited him with creating the warm, welcoming atmosphere that embraced anyone and everyone who entered the congregation. In addition, Dean had a knack for technology and lead the way in modernizing the church’s technological capabilities by managing the weekly A/V presentations for twenty years. In addition, Dean attended Bible Study Fellowship where he cultivated a deep relationship with his Lord.

Dean’s unwavering kindness and enduring spirit will be celebrated with visitation from 5pm-7pm, and a service at 7pm, on February 7th, at Greenback First Presbyterian with graveside memorial at Sherwood Chapel and Memorial Gardens, on Monday, February 9, 2026 at 3pm.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Thompson Oncology Group in Oak Ridge, Covenant Hospice, and Clinch River Home Health for their kindness and excellent care.