Joseph "Jay" Dean Jr.

Joseph “Jay” Dean, Jr., a beloved, brave, and devoted man, passed away on November 30, 2025, at the age of 60. Born on March 17, 1965, in Lumberton, NC, Jay was the only son of Joseph Dean Sr. (Jeanie Dean) and the late Janice Myers Dean.

A graduate of Red Springs High School in Red Springs, NC, Jay built a life defined by integrity, resilience, and deep love for those closest to him. In 2020, although he was living in Leland, NC, he met the love of his life, Amanda Steinbruegge Allen, while working in Myrtle Beach. Their journey together brought him to Myrtle Beach in 2022, and the two were married on July 13, 2024. Just this year, they made their home Longs in 2025.

Jay was an avid ECU football fan and a passionate gun enthusiast—interests that brought him both joy and meaningful camaraderie. Above all, time spent with Amanda was his greatest pastime. Despite facing illness over the past year and a half, he maintained an unwavering spirit, sharing warmth, humor, and love with everyone around him. He was rarely seen without his two cherished dogs, Pepper and Shadow, faithfully at his side.

Surviving is his wife, Amanda; son, Koty Dean (Sydney); stepson, Tristyn Allen; stepdaughter, Enjoli Allen; and his two grandchildren. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Julie Mackes (Lee Ann Mackes); sisters-in-law, Lyndie Masters (Alan) and Megan Ohlinger; and brother-in-law, Stephen Steinbruegge. He was preceded in death by his sister, Sheila Chenevey.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 1:00 until 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at New Seaside Community Church, 3738 Old Kings Hwy, Murrells Inlet, SC, 29576.

Please share memories and condolences at www.leefhandcrematory.com