Harold Dean Brady

Harold Dean Brady, 74, of Marion, NC passed away peacefully surrounded by family.

Born on September 13th, 1950, in York, South Carolina, Dean was the son of Paul Brady Jr. and Mamie Ramsey Brady. From humble beginnings, he built a life defined by hard work, perseverance, and deep love for his family.

Dean attended Clemson University, graduating with honors in Forestry in 1972. He went on to earn his master’s degree at Clemson and later pursued doctoral studies at Oregon State University. In 1970, he married his high school sweetheart, Martha Marshall, and together they raised three sons: Erik, Patrick, and Ethan.

Dean devoted more than three decades to JELD-WEN, where at one point, became the company’s youngest General Manager at the time. He retired from the company after serving in a leadership role where he oversaw all transportation functions throughout North America. Over his 31-year career, he played a pivotal role in expanding operations across the country, leading new plant developments in Oregon, Iowa, and Marion, North Carolina. His leadership and vision contributed to remarkable growth in the company, and he was widely respected for his integrity, innovation, and work ethic.

Following Martha’s passing in 1991, Dean later found love again with Jean, whom he married in 1993. Together they built a blended family of six children, creating a home filled with love, resilience, and strong values.

After his retirement in 2005, Dean pursued his passion for the outdoors through forestry and land management, purchasing and caring for a large property in South Carolina. As an Eagle Scout, avid hunter, and fisherman, he passed on these skills to his children and grandchildren with whom he cherished his time and was proud to have lived what he described as the American Dream. His commitment to Christ sustained him through times of both joy and trial, and his hope was always rooted in God’s promises.

Dean’s life was marked by professional achievement, personal strength, and unwavering devotion to family. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the example he set, and the family he loved so deeply.

Dean is survived by his beloved wife, Jean; his children Erik, Patrick, Ethan, Katy, Jennifer and Michael as well as numerous grandchildren who were his pride and joy. Also surviving him are siblings Scott, Diane, and Barbara. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Martha; and his parents, Paul and Mamie Brady, and brother Brian.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, September 13th from 11AM to Noon at Beam Funeral Service immediately followed by a celebration of life at their chapel. A graveside service will start after the celebration of life at Oak Grove Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please donate in memoriam to First Baptist Church of Marion (828) 652-6030 or Trout Unlimited (800) 834-2419.