Former Crossville Mayor and City Councilman Earl Dean has died.  Mr. Dean served as Mayor for six-years and on the City Council for 16 years dating back to 1988. Mr. Dean served on the Crossville Regional Planning Commission for 17 years.

Crossville Mayor James Mayberry told CNF flags will be flying half-mast in Crossville in honor of Earl Dean.

Former Mayor and current Councilman J.H. Graham III posted the following to his Facebook page:

To all our friends, It is with a sad heart that I let you all know that Mr. Earl Dean , former Mayor of Crossville, passed away this morning..He served our Community with dignity.,His love for our Community is unequaled and I respected him and his judgement..He was my mentor and I will miss him…..

City Clerk Sally Oglesby commented: Earl was a wonderful Mayor who was very thoughtful in his approach. He didn’t say much, but when he did, you listened. You knew his words would be very important and sincere. He was a wonderful example to all and will be missed.

Mr. Dean also was a longtime Crossville Businessman as owner of Monticello Canning Company and was an announcer from time to time on local radio station WAEW-AM/FM in the 70’s owned by his brother Warren Dean.  Mr. Dean served in the Air Force as well.  Mr. Dean has been battling Alzheimer’s for some time. He was 79.