Carolyn Jane (Arsenault) Dean

Carolyn Jane Dean, was born to Warren and Mabel Arsenault in Chicago, Illinois on July 25, 1943. She was blessed with loving, free-thinking parents and a big brother--Delbert "Del"--who was a friend and role model throughout her life.  

She recalled her childhood on the Southeast side of Chicago as one of meeting and learning from all kinds of people. Her father, through action and example, demonstrated “all are welcome.” Her mother taught her responsibility matters, especially from those who claim authority. In addition, regular get-togethers with extended family brought her joy and memories that lasted a lifetime. 

While she relished the cosmopolitan side of her life, she also loved nature.  She was both an avid swimmer and camper. She cherished the memories of YMCA Camp Pinewood in Michigan-- which she attended as a child--and worked at with her brother in their teen years.

She attended the University of Illinois then transferred to the Chicago Teachers' College (CTC) to complete her teaching degree. While living in Chicago and attending the CTC, she worked at the Museum of Science and Industry, where she conducted tours of the U-505, a German submarine captured during WWII. 

One fateful weekend she went back to the U of I and went on a double date that her friend Joyce arranged. That's when Carolyn met a farm boy from Griggsville named W. Duane Dean. They married in 1967 and briefly lived in Denver, CO while he finished his military service. 

In 1969, they moved to Pike County and Duane set up a veterinary practice in Barry, IL. Children Kent and Elizabeth followed and were fortunate as well with loving parents and role models. Carolyn's focus was supporting her children's endeavors and encouraging them to have an active life.

Throughout her adult life, Carolyn extended herself for the community - primarily on behalf of children and youth. If there was a committee - she would get involved: Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, bible school, Parent Teacher's Association, Methodist Youth, etc. The family always had a GMC Suburban to accommodate lots of kids. 

She also substitute-taught throughout Pike County. In the late 1970's, she was instrumental in establishing the Barry Cooperative Nursery School - when pre-K was not common and often not directly supported by government. She backed moderate Republican candidates until the party abandoned her views rooted in democracy, reason and caring for one another.  

After the unfortunate passing of Duane, she remained in Barry and redoubled her efforts for youth by teaching full time at the now well-established Barry nursery school and later at Barry Elementary. She also championed the New Philadelphia project from the very beginning. 

In her later years, she was welcomed by the community at Griggsville Estates where she continued to make new friends. 

She passed peacefully after a brief illness in the company of family on January 8, 2026 and will be interred in Griggsville alongside her late husband Duane.

Carolyn is survived by; son, Kent (Amy) Dean of Barry, IL; daughter, Elizabeth (Ashton McLean) Dean of Chicago, IL; grandchildren, Lincoln Dean and Warren Dean; sister-in-law, Barbara Arsenault; and nephews, Jeff Arsenault and Brad Arsenault.

She was preceded in death by; her parents, Warren and Mabel Arsenault; loving husband, W. Duane Dean; and brother, Delbert Arsenault.

 A funeral service will be held Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 11 am at the Barry United Methodist Church in Barry, IL.  Visitation will be Wednesday, January 14, 2026, from 10:00-11:00 pm at the church. Interment to follow service at Griggsville Cemetery in Griggsville, IL.  Memorials are suggested to Griggsville Cemetery or to Advocacy Network for Children based in Quincy, IL. Online condolences may be left to the family at www.nieburfh.com.  Niebur Funeral Chapel in Barry, IL is handling the arrangements.

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