Joseph Don Dean

With profound sadness and heartfelt gratitude for a life well lived, the family of Lieutenant Joe Dean of the Gretna Police Department announces his peaceful passing on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at the age of 77.

A distinguished law enforcement officer, devoted family man, and beloved figure in the Gretna community, Joe dedicated nearly five decades of his life to the profession he loved and the people he so faithfully served. Still actively serving the Gretna Police Department at the time of his passing, he leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of public service, unwavering dedication, and treasured friendships.

Born on March 30, 1949, in Bastrop, Louisiana, Joe was the son of the late Nellie Ruth and Joseph David Dean.

Joe was the proud father of Shawn Adam Dean, Dwayne Mayo Dean (Amy), and Thomas Joseph Dean; the cherished grandfather of Connar Dougharty (Velvet), Bailey Adamson (Roneisha), Tory Jones Dean, Tommy Dean Jr., Logan Dean, and Noelle Dean; and the loving great-grandfather of Titus Dougharty, Eloise Dougharty, Owen Dougharty, and Elijah Dean. He was the beloved brother of Dwight David Dean (Claudia) and is also survived by his nieces and a treasured circle of lifelong friends.

A proud lifelong resident of Gretna, Joe's roots in the community ran deep. He attended West Jefferson High School before embarking upon what would become a distinguished career in law enforcement. In 1977, he graduated from the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office Academy, Class 19, and furthered his professional education as a graduate of the Southern Police Institute.

Throughout his many years of dedicated service with the Gretna Police Department, Lieutenant Dean earned numerous commendations and recognitions of merit, reflecting his unwavering commitment to his profession and the community he proudly served. He first retired with the rank of Lieutenant in 1998, but his devotion to law enforcement and the City of Gretna would ultimately bring him back to the department in 2008.

Remarkably, Joe continued to serve the Gretna Police Department until his passing, remaining dedicated to the profession he loved and the community that held him in such high regard. His career in law enforcement spanned nearly five decades, a testament to his extraordinary commitment to public service.

For Joe, law enforcement was far more than a profession. It was a calling, a source of immense pride, and a lifelong bond with the community he called home. Through generations of service, he earned not only the respect of his fellow officers but also the admiration and affection of countless friends and neighbors. His enduring presence within the Gretna Police Department and the community he served will remain an important part of his legacy.

Yet, beyond the uniform and the many professional accomplishments stood a man whose zest for life was every bit as memorable as his distinguished career.

To his family, he was affectionately known as "Paw Paw" and "Uncle PoPo," a fun-loving, adventurous spirit who was always ready for the next great experience. Joe embraced life wholeheartedly, whether spending time with the many friends he made during his younger days at Broncos, enjoying the thrill of drag racing, where he was known to leave more than a few competitors in his dust, or taking to the open road on his beloved Harley-Davidson.

Joe had a gift for friendship and a personality that left a lasting impression. His sense of adventure, tender heart, and genuine affection for those closest to him made him a truly unforgettable presence. He was a man of many friendships, countless stories, and a lifetime of memories that will continue to bring both smiles and comfort to those fortunate enough to have known him.

A respected officer, a cherished father and grandfather, a loyal friend, and a beloved member of his community, Joe Dean was truly one of a kind. His passing leaves an immeasurable void, but his legacy lives on in the family he adored, the friendships he nurtured, and the community he served so faithfully.

Though he will be deeply missed, his spirit, kindness, and remarkable love of life will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew him, until they meet again.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions and prayers be made in Joe's memory to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, honoring the service and sacrifice of those who have dedicated their lives to protecting others.

https://tinyurl.com/OfficersMemorialFund

Relatives, friends, fellow law enforcement officers, and members of the community are invited to gather in celebration and remembrance of Joe's life on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at MOTHE Funeral Home, 2100 Westbank Expressway, Harvey, Louisiana. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., followed by funeral services in the chapel at 11:00 a.m.

Additional services will be held on Thursday, October 15, 2026 at the Chapel of Golden Funeral Home in Bastrop, LA. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until 10 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment will follow in the Pinegrove Baptist Church Cemetery under the direction of Golden Funeral Home. Bro. Gary Guice, Jr. will officiate.

MOTHE Funeral Home has been entrusted with funeral arrangements. The family warmly invites relatives and friends to share their condolences, fondest memories, and personal tributes to Joe, whose extraordinary life touched so many.