Mary Beth Dean

Mary Beth Anderson Dean, 89, of Canton, Texas, passed away peacefully on October 28, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her loving family. A woman of unwavering faith, Mary Beth lived her life with a joyful heart, a generous spirit, and a deep love for her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Born on January 22, 1937, in Tyler, Texas, Mary Beth graduated from Van High School. She later retired from Van Zandt County, where she served as a secretary assigned to the Texas Department of Public Safety in Canton.

Mary Beth found great joy in reading and studying God’s Word, spending time with family and friends, and sharing her faith with others. She especially treasured hosting her beloved “God Squad” gatherings, where friendship, fellowship, and a shared love for the Lord brought people together. She was blessed with dear friends whose faithful visits, loving companionship, and gift for making her laugh brought so much joy to her life. A faithful member of Oakland Baptist Church, Mary Beth was known for her warm heart, joyful laughter, and the genuine love she showed to everyone around her.

Mary Beth was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bill; her parents, Luther and Maggie Anderson; and her sisters, Louise Chambless and Carolyn Wyatt.

She is survived by her four children, Debbie Dean, Kenneth (Shelly) Dean, Kay (James) Hunt, and Cathy (John) Vance; fourteen grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren, with one more on the way; her brother, Charles (Gloria) Anderson; many nieces and nephews; and a host of dear friends.

Mary Beth will be remembered for her wisdom, unwavering faith, and unconditional love. Her life was a beautiful reflection of the Lord she loved so dearly. She had a gift for sharing wisdom, offering encouragement, and making others feel loved. Whether through her words, her prayers, or simply the way she lived, she touched countless lives and leaves behind a legacy of faith and love that will continue for generations.

Above all, Mary Beth loved her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Those who knew her knew that her greatest desire was for others to know Him as she did. She knew without a shadow of a doubt where she would spend eternity, and if she could leave one final message, it would be this: Know Jesus as your personal Savior so that we may meet again in Heaven.

Though her family and friends will deeply miss her presence, her laughter, and her loving guidance, they find comfort in knowing that she is home with her Heavenly Father. Her wisdom will continue to guide them, her love will remain in their hearts, and her faith will be a lasting example for generations to come.

“She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.” — Proverbs 31:26 (KJV)

Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Eubank Funeral Home in Canton, Texas. A celebration of Mary Beth’s life will follow at 11:00 a.m., with graveside services immediately following at Haven of Memories Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.