Obituary of Eldridge Leslie Dean

Eldridge Leslie Dean, age 98 of Gate City, VA, entered into the glories of Heaven on Tuesday, July 4, 2023.  Eldridge was born on March 22, 1925, in Edison, TN to Jacob and Virginia Dean.  Eldridge married Helen Tate and after many years of a beautiful marriage, she preceded him in death in 1991.  In 1995, Eldridge married Nataleen B. France.  Together they shared a wonderful life and made many beautiful memories together.   

Eldridge proudly served his country in the United States Army Air Corp during World War II in the European Campaign.  After WW II, Eldridge continued his enlistment with the United States Air Force and served at bases all over the world and the United States for another 20 years.  After his time in the Air Force, Eldridge went to work as a security officer for Holston Defense and retired in 1985. 

Eldridge was a man of integrity and sincerity.  He loved his family, and he was a devout Christian.  He served as the Sunday School Director and was a Deacon at Cowans Branch Baptist Church for 20 plus years.  For the last six years, Eldridge attended Cameron Methodist Church in Gate City, VA.  Eldridge enjoyed fishing and the love for his country was never in question. 

Eldridge was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Helen Tate Dean; and several brothers.  Those left to cherish his memory are loving wife, Nataleen Dean; stepson, Tim France and wife Anna; and sister, Marcella Hilton.  

There will be a military honors graveside service on Monday, July 10, 2023, at 2:00 pm at Holston View Cemetery.  Pastor Layton Bentley will be officiating, and the American Legion Post 3/265 will be presenting military honors.  Bobby Grizzel, Billy Grizzel, Scott Hensley, and Warren Fansler will be serving as pallbearers.  Honorary pallbearers are J.B. Hensley and Steve Elliott.  Those wishing to attend the graveside service are asked to meet at Scott County Funeral Home at 1:00 pm.  

Carter Trent Scott County Funeral Home is serving the Dean family.