TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCJB) – Many in North Central Florida are reflecting on the life of former state Sen. Charles “Charlie” Dean, after he died at the age of 86.
Florida Senate President Ben Albritton announced Dean’s death on Monday.
Dean, a U.S. Marine, served in the state Senate from 2007 to 2016, and he represented Baker, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Lafayette, Levy, Suwannee, and Union Counties, and part of Marion County.
“Senator Dean was a dedicated family man and a strong advocate for Florida’s rural communities. Miss Judy’s famous chow-chow was a beloved session tradition during their time in service. I know the prayers of the entire Senate are with his family as they both grieve this profound loss and celebrate a long, full life,” said Albritton.
In addition to his time in the Senate, Dean served in the state House from 2002 to 2007. He was the sheriff of Citrus County from 1980 to 1996.
Dean is survived by his wife, Judy, their children Shannon and Charlie, and grandchildren Charles III, Austin, and Claire.
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