Obituary of Parris Fawndean Curry

Parris Fawndean “Dean” Curry, born February 26, 1921, peacefully passed away at home on Tuesday, September 16, 2014. He was born and raised in Rotan, Texas. He is preceded in death by his parents William Polk Curry, Kitty Smith Curry and Dollie Smith Curry; wife, Mildred Wilson Curry; brother, William P. Curry, Jr.; and sister, Kathleen C. Reinhart. Dean is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Marion W. Curry. His children, Michael Curry and wife, Gail; Nancy Curry Todd and husband, Sam; Patrick Curry and wife, Linda; Mark Curry and wife, Tina; Melissa Curry Merrill and husband, Brady; and Mary S. Curry. His sisters, Lois C. Rushing; Mattie Lou (Pat) Weckerly and husband, Norman; Sue C. Vaughan and husband, Frank. His nine grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. Dean was eagerly awaiting the arrival of his sixth great-grandchild later this year. He was honored to be called Uncle Dean by numerous nieces and nephews. Dean was a proud member of the “Greatest Generation” serving in the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II, aboard the USS Joyce DE (Destroyer Escort). During Dean’s service from 1942-1945, he made 28 TransAtlantic trips on the USS Joyce. When he returned to Texas after the war, he settled in Houston and finished his degree at the University of Houston in 1948. He enjoyed a long and distinguished career with Houston Lighting & Power, retiring after 39 years of service. Dean was strong in his faith and an active member of First United Methodist Church Pearland. He was an adventurer at heart and enjoyed life to the fullest. Dean was affectionately known as “Grandad” to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and loved being active in their lives. He will be greatly missed by all that knew and loved him. Dean was blessed with a long life fully lived. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dean’s honor to First United Methodist Church Pearland, specifically to the Men In Action Organization or to the charity of your choice. A visitation for Dean will be held on Thursday, September 18, 2014 from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm at Clayton Funeral Home, 5530 W. Broadway, Pearland, Texas 77581. A graveside service with military honors will take place on Friday, September 19, 2014 at 10:30 am at Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Dr. Houston, Texas 77038. Following the graveside service a Celebration of Life service will be held at 1:30 pm at First United Methodist Church, 2314 N. Grand Blvd., Pearland, Texas 77581, with Rev. Dr. Bob Joiner officiating.