Sophie Pelmont Dean

Sophie Pelmont Dean peacefully passed away on February 27, 2023, at Sherman Home Hospice of the Valley in Phoenix, AZ at the ripe age of 90. Sophie will be remembered for her warmth, friendly spirit, spirituality and honesty. Sophie goes down as one of the greatest conversationalists of all time. Literally, she could talk to anyone. Sophie was a lover of animals, people, dancing and the United States.

Sophie was born September 30, 1932, on the island of Singapore to Hilda and Ephraim Jacob. She was the baby of nine children, with six brothers (Jacob, Meyer, Reuben, David, Isaac and Abraham) and two sisters (Lily and Meda) ahead of her. Sophie and her family survived over a year in an internment camp during World War II, an experience that solidified her deep appreciation for freedom and her eventual love of the United States.

Sophie moved to New York City at the age of 20, where she met her first husband, Bernard “Bernie” Pelmont. After a move to Los Angeles, CA, Sophie and Bernie welcomed two daughters, Lisa and Debra “Debbie” Pelmont before Bernie’s passing in 1978.

Sophie’s second chapter of life began with her second husband, John Dean. Together for 38 years, Sophie and John danced their hearts out, traveled extensively throughout the United States, camped, played Bingo and enjoyed laughs and fun with family and friends. They lived most of their life together in the mountains of San Bernadino, CA before their final move to Scottsdale, AZ.

Sophie is preceded in death by her first husband, Bernie, her daughter, Debbie, and her grandson, Derek Leveque, as well as her parents, siblings, dear family members and friends. She was anxious to reunite with all of these loved ones on the other side.

Aside from being a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother (affectionately called G.G.), aunt and friend, Sophie was also a selfless caregiver of many throughout the years. Her outgoing personality, brutally honest advice, warm hugs, savory cooking and impeccably clean home are just a few of the many things that will be missed and remembered.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Wounded Warrior Project, Salvation Army, Humane Society or Hospice of the Valley.

An intimate celebration of life and burial will take place at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Griffith Park, CA.