OBITUARY: Dean Herrick Sr.

Dean Herrick Sr., 71, of Rockingham, passed away unexpectedly Saturday, July 20, 2024, at his home.

Dean was a son of the late Willie Mae Chavis and Wendell Homer Herrick Sr. and was born Aug. 29, 1952 in Rockingham.

Dean is also preceded in death by his siblings, Jimmy Herrick, Frank Herrick and Red Herrick. Dean is further preceded by his wife, Dawne Herrick, to whom he shared 33 years with before her passing July 7, 2024.

Dean attended Rohanen High School and would go on to work for his family at Wendell’s Café for many years. Following this, Dean would work for Fruit of the Loom for most of his career, working his way to becoming a supervisor. Dean worked briefly at D and D lawn Care. Outside of work, he proudly volunteered over 15 years at East Rockingham Fire Department, four of which he served as a lieutenant.

Dean had many passions in life. He enjoyed fishing on his boat, bowling and going to the beach with his family. Dean was an avid sports and racing fan, he used to attend the NASCAR races held at Rockingham Speedway and every Friday night would be spent with his family cheering on the young athletes of Richmond Senior High School. Dean was a man that loved spending time with his family, all of whom will miss him dearly.

Dean Herrick Sr. is survived by children Deena Herrick, Shannon Blevins (Roger), Wayne Turner, Dean Herrick Jr. (Dena) and Chris Turner (Ashley). He leaves behind 15 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren and a host of friends.

The family will receive friends for visitation at Watson-King Funeral Home from 2-3 p.m. A funeral service will be conducted Sunday, July 28, 2024 at 3 p.m. at Watson-King Funeral Home Chapel in Rockingham with the Rev. Jason Lutz officiating. Burial will follow at Richmond Co. Memorial Park.

Online memorials can be made at watson-kingfuneralhome.com. Watson-King Funeral Home is proud and saddened to be assisting the Herrick family again so soon.