Dean Lassiter

Dean was a devoted husband, loving father and son, cherished brother, loyal friend, and beloved member of the Wilmington community. For more than 30 years, he and his family have been the proud owners of Aussie Island Surf Shop, where his love for surfing and the coastal lifestyle became much more than a business. Aussie Island was a place where friendships were formed, young people were encouraged, and generations of the Wilmington community came to know and love Dean.

Dean had a special place in his heart for the kids who surfed on the Aussie Island Surf Team. He loved encouraging young surfers, supporting them both in and out of the water, and watching them grow. Over the years, his generosity extended far beyond the surf shop. Dean helped countless people throughout the community, often quietly and without recognition. If someone needed help, Dean was the kind of person who found a way to be there.

Dean had an adventurous spirit and a true love for life. He loved surfing, snowboarding, extreme sports, and just about anything that brought a little excitement and adventure. But nothing compared to the love he had for his family. He loved being married to his wife, Adrian, and he treasured being a father to Evan, Julia, and Smith. His family was the center of his world, and the time he spent with them meant more to him than anything else.

Dean will be remembered for his incredible generosity, his adventurous spirit, his loyalty to the people he loved, and his willingness to help others. He gave freely of his time, encouragement, and resources and made a lasting difference in the lives of so many people. His impact on Wilmington, the local surfing community, and especially the young people he encouraged over the years will continue long after his passing.

Dean is survived by his wife, Adrian Smith Lassiter; his children, Evan Dean Lassiter, 26, Julia Rose Lassiter, 20, and Smith Cason Lassiter, 12; his parents, James Franklin Lassiter Sr. and Audrey Dean Lassiter; his brother, James Franklin Lassiter Jr., and his wife, Susan Lassiter; his uncle and aunt, Joe and Sandra Holloman, as well as many beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

Dean lived his life with adventure, generosity, and a deep love for the people around him. His legacy lives on through his family, the friendships he built, the young people he encouraged, the many people he helped, and the community he loved.

A Celebration of Life honoring Dean will be held on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Port City Community Church in Wilmington, North Carolina. Church casual attire welcomed.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donations to Christian Surfers: https://christiansurfers.com/give/

Dean will be deeply missed, but the love he gave so freely, the lives he touched, and the memories he created will live on in all who knew and loved him.