Barry Shannon Dean

It is with great sadness that we share the unexpected passing of Barry Shannon Dean, 74, of Nicholasville, Kentucky, on June 20, 2026. He was born on June 21, 1951, in Lexington, Kentucky. Barry was the son of the late Carl A. and Roberta Fain Dean. Barry graduated from the University of Kentucky with a degree in Biology. He spent his career as a Corrections Officer in the prison system for the Kentucky Department of Corrections and later retired as a Parole Officer in Western Kentucky. Upon his retirement from the state, he was informed that he had accumulated more leave time than any other state employee in Kentucky history, a true testament to his dedication and reliability. After his retirement, he returned to the Nicholasville area and worked at Speedway, where he made it a point to get to know all of his customers and really enjoyed visiting with them each day. Even after leaving Speedway, he remained a familiar face, stopping by daily for coffee (before coffee was cool) and conversation. Barry’s work ethic was unequaled regardless of the type of job he was doing. Barry was an avid reader, especially of true crime and courtroom drama. As a history buff, he was able to recall almost everything he read or heard. He was a lifelong fan of the University of Kentucky basketball and football, watching all of the games and listening to daily radio analyses. He never lost faith in the team no matter how lopsided the score. Always a dog lover, Barry never met a dog he didn’t like. He was a member of the Lexington Athletic Club, where he worked out daily, had many friends, and everyone knew his name. He was a beloved brother, uncle, cousin, and friend, and will be greatly missed.Barry is survived by his brother Bobby Dean (Shay), twin brother Tommy Dean (Nina), niece Molly Stevens (Wayne), their children Piper and Madeline, nephew Micah Dean (Katie), their children Evie and Oliver, and many loving cousins. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at Maple Grove Cemetery. Contributions are suggested to the Jessamine County Humane Society. Betts & West Funeral Home is honored to serve Barry and the Dean family during their time of loss. Online guestbook at www.BettsandWestfuneralhome.com.