Josephine Yearby Dean

Josephine “Bobbie Sue” Yearby Dean, born on September 21, 1942, to Joe Sampson and Necie Yearby, was the youngest of fifteen children. She grew up on a small farm in Olla, Louisiana, surrounded by the love and lessons of her large family. Her mother instilled in her the value of Christianity, family and education, principles that guided her throughout her life.

Josephine graduated from Good Pine High School, a small, all-black school with a close-knit

student body of around 250. Her dedication to academics earned her high honors, culminating in

her role as salutatorian of her graduating class. During her senior year, she met Edward Lamar.

Dean, the man who would become her lifelong partner. Josephine and Edward married on June 5, 1960, just two weeks after her high school graduation. Their union was blessed with four children: Edward Lamar Dean Jr., Tina Dean, Cheree Dean, and Eric Dean. Early in their marriage, the couple moved to California, where they worked tirelessly to build a life for their growing family. Both pursued higher education while balancing work and parenting. Josephine’s determination and hard work were evident as she supported Edward in earning his bachelor’s degree and later achieved her own lifelong dream: a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from the University of Redlands. Josephine’s career was as remarkable as her personal life. She excelled in the aerospace industry, specializing in pricing and estimation. Through her company, she completed a prestigious certificate program at UCLA and had opportunities to travel the world, visiting Africa, South America, Asia, and Europe. These adventures became cherished memories she shared with Edward and her family and friends.

In her free time, Josephine found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She was an avid reader,

often immersed in novels, and a talented quilter and crocheter, creating beautiful handmade items

for her loved ones. Fishing was another passion she shared with Edward, leading them on adventures from Costa Rica to Alaska. At home, Josephine’s life was filled with music—Gospel, R&B, Jazz, and Reggae. Her home radiated warmth, often filled with the sounds of her favorite songs, laughter, and the aroma of home-cooked meals prepared for family gatherings. A devout Christian, Josephine embodied the teachings of her faith. She was a member of Two42 Church and lived by the scripture: “The Lord is good to everyone. He showers compassion on all his creation” (Psalms 145:9). Her unwavering faith guided her throughout her life, shaping her into a beacon of love and kindness. Josephine’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience. She was a devoted daughter, wife, sister, mother, grandmother to nine, great-grandmother to nine and aunt. Her laughter, generosity, and faith touched everyone who knew her. She instilled the importance of love and compassion n her family, creating a foundation that will endure for generations.

Josephine is survived by her children: Tina Dean-Corn, Cheree Dean, and Eric Dean; two

brothers, Joe Yearby, Edward Yearby Sr; and one sister, Lillian Walker. She is also survived by

her grandchildren (Ebony Wilson, Sean Dean, Brittni Dixon, Christen Longstreet, David Corn,

Valeria Magana, Antuanett Dean, Adriana Dean, Jeremy Corn), great-grandchildren (Briana

Dean, Sean Edward Dean, Aleana Dean, Lauren Dean, Noah Dean, Zayn Dean, Nathaniel

Magana, Julianna Magana, Cree Keita), many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in

death by her eldest son, Edward Lamar Dean Jr., and her beloved husband of 65 years, Edward

“Robert Charles” Dean.

Josephine “Bobbie Sue” Yearby Dean entered eternal rest on December 28, 2024, at the age of

82. Her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those she loved and those who loved her.