Charles Dean

• Updated from MyHeritage Family Trees via daughter Betsey Jane Dean by SmartCopy: Feb 9 2015, 1:43:12 UTC

Charles Dean, the son of Thomas Dean and Betty Darlington, was born March 11, 1829, in the town of Audley, Staffordshire, England. At the tender age of seven years, he commenced work on the brick yard, engaging his time at this labor in the summer season and attending school winters. At the age of eleven years, he commenced work in the coal mines. While at this labor, he was providentially associated with a kind-hearted man who understood the gospel and explained the principles to him. He accepted and June 25, 1848, was baptized by his brother, John Dean. He endured all the persecutions incident to receiving the gospel in those early days, but he possessed that noble characteristic to lift his voice for the truth under all conditions and circumstances. Peculiar circumstances brought a change and the branch he was associated with was broken up and for a period of ten years the sound of no Elders voice was not heard. This lapse of time, instead of destroying the germ of truth, only made the gospel sweeter and dearer when the opportunity again arrived to listen to the voice of the good shepherd through one of his appointed servants.

He became acquainted and was married to Mary Cope on January 29, 1 852, at Woolstanton, Staffordshire, England. They left the land of their nativity, together with Latter-day Israel on April 19, 1861, on the ship Underwriter with 625 souls aboard, left the shores of England and they were among the number.

On the second day of the voyage, they were called upon to deliver to the mighty deep, an infant child. This was the commencement of the long and tedious journey. They crossed the plains in the primitive way with an ox team. The history that our parents have written will last forever. The journey covering a period of eleven weeks and three days, arriving in Salt Lake City, September 12, 1861. One week on the old camp ground and then Bountiful was chosen as a home for the future. Here was made a history for eleven years that only the pioneer and early settlers can truly know privations, hardships, joys and sorrow all intermingled, in fact, laying the foundation for the peace and prosperity.

In early days, Brother Dean was our chief singer, and his willingness to perform any duty made it a pleasure to call upon him. We find by the Church record that he was ordained a priest October, 1860, by Edward Cliff, a Seventy, February 19, 1866, by Joseph Young, a High Priest September 24, 1896, by Bishop John M. Baxter. He has done considerable Temple Work and had a great desire to continue in this labor. He was the father of eight sons and four daughters. The grandchildren numbered 44. (When this history was written)

Peace to the mortal and joy and happiness to the immortal which has gone to join kindred and friends in the mission of the just.

S. C. Putnam

Charles Dean and wife Mary Cope Dean moved to Woodruff in 1872 and he built the first adobe house in the settlement. He died September 19, 1896. and was buried in the Woodruff Cemetery. Mary Cope Dean died March 15, 1909, in Woodruff.

Funeral services for Elder Charles Dean who left this mortal sphere on September 10, 1896. The family and remains arrived at the school house at 2 p.m. The members of' the Sunday School were present, the Priesthood and many friends. The choir sang Thou Dost Not Weep." P rayer Counselor Byron Sessions; Hymn, "Farewell All Earthly Honors," Brother William T. Reed spoke a short time. William Rex was the next speaker, followed by Bishop William H. Lee, who addressed the assembly. S. C. Putnam read a historical sketch on the life of Brother Charles Dean and then added a few words of sympathy to the family. Bishop John M. Baxter told of the good qualities of the deceased and then there was a hymn repose.

The children all marched through the building, placing flowers on the casket, it being stormy they were unable to march to the cemetery. The Priesthood followed, taking the lead and then the family and friends. Twenty wagons and carriages were in line. It rained during the time occupied in the last rites at the cemetery.

SOURCE: Family Search.org