Bobby Dean Fanning, age 81, passed away peacefully at Family Hospice Care in Huntsville on February 9th, 2024, surrounded by his loving wife and family.

He was born in New Market, Alabama, to Ray and Irene Fanning. Dean was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who touched the lives of many through his unwavering faith, service to his country, and love for his family.

Dean enlisted in the United States Army in 1960, serving with honor for three years, including a period stationed in Germany. Upon his return, he embarked on a successful career, working at Bill Heard Chevrolet for many years before becoming the owner/appraiser of Property Damage
Appraisers, where he dedicated two decades of his life.

A pillar of strength in his community, Dean found peace and purpose in his faith, cherishing his times singing in the Midway Baptist Church choir in Athens, AL. He possessed a natural knowledge of mechanics and a keen skill in engineering, finding joy in improving everything from cars to computers. His legacy of hard work, dedication, and ingenuity will continue to inspire those who knew him.

Dean's greatest joy in life was his family. He was a loving husband to his wife, Paulette Adams Fanning, with whom he shared over 60 years of cherished memories. Dean leaves behind a legacy of love and wisdom to his three children: Kim F. Vaughn (Rex), Amanda F. Browner (Doug), and
Brad Fanning (Lea); as well as nine grandchildren: Carmen V. Bragg (Sean), Hannah V. Creed (Kaze), Audrey B. Wright (Jerrid), Ellie V. Milby (Cole), Haley F. Loudin (Drew), Adam Browner (Abby), Austin Browner (Macki), Riley Fanning, and Walton Vaughn (Whitney); and five great-grandchildren: Gray Bragg, Graham Bragg, Bryant Wright, R.G. Creed, and Marabelle Milby. Each of whom he loved dearly and imparted with invaluable life lessons.

Dean will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Irene Fanning
.
Visitation to celebrate Dean's life will be held on Monday, February 12, 2024, from 5:00-7:00 pm at  Berryhill Funeral Home, located at 2305 Memorial Pkwy NW, Huntsville, AL 35810. The funeral service will take place on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at 1:00 pm, also at Berryhill Funeral Home.
Immediately following the service, Dean will be laid to rest at Kennemer Cemetery in New Hope, AL.
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The funeral service will be officiated by Rev. Gerome Hilliard and Rev. Doug Browner. Pallbearers honoring Dean will include Adam Browner, Austin Browner, Riley Fanning, Walton Vaughn, Sean Bragg, Kaze Creed, Jerrid Wright, Drew Loudin, and Cole Milby. Berryhill Funeral Home is honored
to oversee the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Midway Baptist Church Music Ministry at 26575 US Highway 72 East Athens, Alabama 35613.

Dean's memory will forever live on in the hearts of those he loved and touched.