Dean Wyatt

Ruble Dean Wyatt was born in Asheville, NC, on July 30, 1953, and passed away at home on June 25, 2025.

Dean was a Leo, the star of the zodiac. The fierce, loyal, and sometimes theatrical lion. Like a lion, he protected his family ardently. His depth of life experience and his insatiable curiosity, combined with his unending compassion, was a magnet for all who held him dear. There were many things he held dear as well.

A blind little Shih Tzu called Rascal. What he lacked in sight, he made up for in tiny aggressions. It was that one little bug eye and lopsided tongue, combined with undying fealty, that endeared him to Dean.

The transformative gift of music. He played it, and more importantly, he heard it. Music provided an intellectual challenge, a creative outlet, an avenue for building community, and a means of navigating the parts of life that are easier played than discussed. He had impeccable taste, but was not afraid to let his rebel side go for a walk once in a while.

He found a second home at Fairview Baptist Church, where he cultivated fulfilling friendships with Rev. Todd Royal and Mike Lytle. It was here where he was baptized and made the decision to devote his life to Christ.

He had an unconventional sense of humor. He loved birdwatching and was good at gardening. He was razor-sharp, and could learn to work on anything. In his life, he saw every corner of the country, and he liked black coffee. He was open minded, and everyone trusted him.

He is eternally loved and missed by Susan, his wife of 45 years. Their children, Ashley and David, and David’s four children, Hayden, DW, Christopher and Jesse, will undoubtedly carry his legacy long into the future.

Visitation will be held at Fairview Baptist Church on Saturday, July 5, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. The memorial service will immediately follow at 3:00 p.m. Flowers may be sent to Fairview Baptist Church, 32 Church Road, Fairview NC, 28730.