John “Applejacks” Dean, 54, of Coeburn, Virginia, passed away on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Bristol Regional Medical Center, surrounded by his family.
Born in Ravenna, Ohio, John spent most of his life in Wise County, Virginia, where he built deep roots and lasting friendships. He was a graduate of Powell Valley High School, Class of 1989. John was a man who truly never met a stranger—his kindness, generosity, and larger-than-life personality left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.
John was a proud member of the Iron Order Motorcycle Club, and riding was one of his greatest passions. Whether on the open road or gathered with friends, he found joy in the freedom and camaraderie that came with it. He was raised a Master Mason at Big Stone Gap Lodge No. 208 on January 24, 2009, later becoming a Shriner with Jericho Temple in Kingsport on December 11, 2019. He was also a member of the Wise County Shrine Club.
He also had a love for photography, cigars, craft beer, and a good bourbon. Some of his favorite memories were made in the Outer Banks with family and friends, or in Asheville, North Carolina, where he enjoyed relaxing at the hot springs or catching an Asheville Tourists baseball game.
A devoted sports fan, John cheered faithfully for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Duke Blue Devils. He was passionate about supporting local youth athletics, volunteering his time and coaching in Little League, where he made a lasting impact on many young lives.
Beyond his personal interests, he was known for his generous spirit—organizing charity events throughout his life and always willing to give his last dollar or the shirt off his back to help someone in need.
Above all, John loved his family. He lived life to the fullest, loved deeply, and will be remembered for the joy and light he brought into the lives of others.
He is survived by his partner, Heather Swartz; his children, Rachel Cvengros (Brandon Cvengros), Ty Dean (Corrina Dean), Morgan Dean (Levi Garrett), and Skyler Dean (Jenna Kiser); his stepchildren, Zoe Lundy, Ava Swartz, and Lia Swartz; his mother, Donna Dean; his brother, Chris Dean; his sister, Amanda Roberts; his grandchildren, Lynnon Dean, Renley Dean, and Bellamy Dean; and 6 nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, Fred “Danny” Dean.
The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Gilliam Funeral Home, 618 Wood Avenue West, Big Stone Gap, Virginia. A service will follow at 1:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel, along with a masonic service, by the Big Stone Gap Masonic Lodge #208 AF & AM. A celebration of life to be held immediately afterward at the home of his daughter, Morgan.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in John’s memory to Waiting to Hear (https://waitingtohear.org/) to honor his charitable spirit.