Franklin - Dean A. Emerson, 86, died on July 21, 2025 at Bon Secours Southampton Medical Center, Franklin, VA.   He was born November 23, 1938 in New London, OH, and lived in various places including Charleston, WV; Evanston, IL; Columbus, OH; Windsor, VA; and Franklin, VA.

Dean graduated in 1956 from New London High School, attended Ohio University for one year, and served in the U.S. Army from 1960-1963. He worked for Planters Peanuts for nearly 30 years and eventually retired from its Suffolk, VA location. He also worked other various agricultural-related jobs in the Windsor and Southampton County areas.

He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Pat; sons, Eric (Nickie) and Craig (Mary) of Chesapeake, VA; stepdaughter, Debbie Marks (Mike) of Capron, VA; grandchildren, Ava and Maddy Emerson, Michael Marks, and Monica Francis (Jason); and great granddaughters, Texie and Campbell Francis.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arvin and Esther Emerson, and his 1st wife, Mary Ann Emerson.

Dean enjoyed watching all kinds of sports, and especially loved The Ohio State Buckeyes football team. He also enjoyed going to his grandkids' sporting events, doing jigsaw puzzles, eating at his favorite restaurants, and watching westerns and war movies.

A funeral service will be held Friday, July 25, 2025 at 2pm at High Street United Methodist Church, 31164 Camp Pkwy, Courtland, VA 23837 with a small reception to follow in the church's Fellowship Hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to High Street United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 218, Franklin, VA 23851.

www.wrightfuneralhome.org