With deep respect and loving remembrance, we share the passing of Freda Evelyn (Carter) Dean, who departed this life on July 21, 2026, at Memorial Hospital in Carbondale, Illinois, at the age of 98. Born on June 16, 1928, in Decatur, Illinois, Freda's life spanned nearly a century filled with devotion to her family and friends, and a legacy built on kindness, grace, and steadfast love.

Freda's journey began in Decatur, Illinois, where she was welcomed into the Carter family. As the daughter of Thomas Ezra Carter and Rosa Ella Carter, she grew up surrounded by brothers and sisters who would become the fabric of her support and companionship. Throughout her formative years, Freda formed many connections, cherishing the bonds within her large and loving family.

Freda married Lester Dean on September 16, 1947 in Decatur, Illinois. She served as a pastor's wife with her husband at the following churches in Illinois: Cisco, LaSalle/Peru, Vandalia, Sandwich, Maryville and Crossville. For 15 years while Lester was the Director of Missions for the Fairfield Baptist Association, now called Goshen Trail Baptist Association, she served as his co-office worker.

She served as a Sunday School teacher most of her life, teaching in the children’s department. She taught Vacation Bible School and was very active in children’s church. Most importantly of all, she was the greatest Mom!

Freda enjoyed painting, sewing, baking and decorating birthday cakes for her family. She loved to watch Hallmark movies with her favorite snacks, popcorn and chocolate.

Blessed with a nurturing spirit, Freda built her own family, becoming a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend. She is survived by her devoted son Tom Dean and his wife Jeannie, her loving daughter Judy Wright and son-in-law Kevin, and her treasured grandchildren: Katie, Melissa and Matthew Dean (Morgan), Christopher Wright (Dee Dee) and Jonathan Wright (Katherine). She found joy in the laughter and warmth of her great-grandchildren: Genevieve, Gianna, and Mary Desmond. Each member of her family was a source of pride, and Freda's guidance and care shaped their lives in immeasurable ways.

While Freda's life was brightened by her surviving relatives, she also endured the profound loss of close family members. She was preceded in death by her husband Rev Lester G Dean, twin sons Lester and Leslie; siblings Claro Carter, “Sonny”, Donald Carter, Harold Carter, Robert Carter “Bobby”, Carl Carter, Omer Carter, W. Dale Carter, and her beloved sister Beverly Dean. She also mourned the loss of sisters-in-law Nora, Rosie, Helen, Elsie, and Glenda, and brother-in-law Keith Dean. The passing of her parents, Thomas Ezra and Rosa Ella Carter, marked a defining moment that she carried with strength and dignity throughout the years.

Freda's wisdom, compassion, and unwavering faith were cornerstones of her character. She lived her life guided by these principles, offering words of encouragement, quiet acts of kindness, and a loving presence to those fortunate enough to know her. Her legacy lives on in the memories and hearts of everyone whose lives she touched.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Freda’s honor to St. Jude Children’s Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.

The community is invited to honor Freda’s life and memory. Visitation will take place on Monday, July 27, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Harre Funeral Home, 310 E. Randolph St., McLeansboro, Illinois 62859.

 A funeral service celebrating Freda’s remarkable journey will immediately follow at 2:00 p.m. in the same location. The committal and burial will be held at I.O.O.F Cemetery on State Route 14, McLeansboro, Illinois at 2:45 p.m.

As we gather to say goodbye, we remember Freda Evelyn (Carter) Dean for her enduring love, the countless moments of happiness she brought into the world, and the indelible mark she leaves upon all who knew her. Her memory will forever remain a blessing and a guiding light to her family and friends.

The family is being served by Harre Funeral Home, 310 West Randolph Street, McLeansboro, Illinois 62859.