Bobby Howard Dean

Bobby H. Dean, age 76, of Nickelsville, Virginia, passed away peacefully at home on April 29, 2025, on the land he loved — his favorite place in the world.

Bobby was a proud tobacco and cattle farmer who spent his life working the land and caring for his animals. He found peace in the quiet moments — especially sitting on the porch with his loyal dog, Buddy, his best friend and constant companion. Bobby also loved to fish and was happiest when surrounded by the hills he called home.

He was preceded in death by his parents, J.B. and Lola Dean. Lola was a woman known for her kindness, her deep respect for others, and her faithful prayers lifted daily from her home.

He is survived by his daughters: Jennifer McClellan and husband Sean, Jacqueline Sykes and husband Adam, and Nancy Shelton; his grandchildren: Devin Dean, Elijah Dean, Dennis Sykes, Tapanga Gillenwater, Richie Adams, Andrew Adams, and Dustin Adams; and a special friend, Betty Dean, mother of his children, whose presence brought comfort and care in his later years.

The family will receive friends from 12-1p.m., Saturday, May 3, 2025, at the Gate City Funeral Home. Services will be conducted at 1:00p.m., in the Gene Falin Memorial Chapel of the funeral home. Graveside services will follow at Holston View Cemetery, Weber City, VA.

In lieu of flowers, they ask that you spend time with those you love, take in the beauty of the land, or go fishing — just as Bobby would have done, with Buddy faithfully by his side.

An online guest register is available for the Dean family at www.gatecityfunerals.com.

Gate City Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family of Bobby H. Dean.