H. Dean Langford

Herman Dean Langford, of Searcy, AR, passed away peacefully in Little Rock on Wednesday, July 29, 2020. Friends and family mourn his loss but are consoled knowing that he is in a far better place-a place that has been prepared just for him. Dean was born in Searcy, AR on January 15, 1936, to the late Troy and Gertrude Langford. He grew up with his older and incredibly supportive brother, Wendell, with whom he shared endless laughter and good times throughout his life. Dean would go on to graduate from Searcy High School and after receiving his degree at Arkansas State Teachers College (UCA), Dean was hired on as a football coach at Bald Knob High School. Here he fostered his lifelong love of sport and would eventually meet his future wife, Phyllis Cothern. After coaching, Dean had a long, successful career as a life insurance agent where his expertise and passion would guide countless friends and family in securing their own peace of mind. In his later years, he took to the open road, which nurtured his sense of adventure and knack for never meeting a strange face, as evidenced by his weekly coffee meet-ups. Dean and his wife Phyllis would go on to raise two sons, Mike and Tim, in Searcy, AR. They were deeply proud and devoted parents (and grandparents). Dean was always actively involved in his sons ’and grandkids’ athletic and milepost events and made them feel loved with his steady presence in their lives. He never missed a birthday or holiday-a card with his impeccable script was always first in the post. He passed on many an interest and hobby to his sons, most notably his love of sports (particularly golf, football, and horseracing), cooking and fishing. He shared countless rounds of golf with Mike and Tim and spent many hours in the kitchen whipping up his award-winning chili and specialty pancakes-something he also did for the congregation of First United Methodist Church in Searcy where he also served as usher for many years. Dean will always be remembered for his friendly, easygoing demeanor, dry sense of humor, and ceaseless loyalty to friends and family. “Dad”, “Dean”, “Granddad”, was loved and will be missed dearly. Dean is survived by his brother Wendel (Mary Lynn) Langford of Searcy, sister Iuanita Garrett of Searcy, sons Tim (Terri) Langford of Little Rock and Mike (Dianne) Langford of Jonesboro, grandkids Morgan (Brad) Smith, Troy Langford, Aaron Langford, Brian Langford, and Caitlynn Langford. The family would like to express our gratitude to the administration and staff of Hickory Heights Nursing Center for their compassionate and loving care of Dean over the past several years. A private family graveside service will be held Friday, July 31. Memorials may be made to The First United Methodist Church in Searcy.

H. Dean Langford

January 15, 1936 - July 29, 2020