Oliver Dean Way, 74, of Florence, Mississippi, passed away Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at Baptist Medical Center in Jackson, Mississippi. Dean was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2017. He was the epitome of strength and courage throughout this eight-year battle. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, January 31, 2025, at Indianola City Cemetery in Indianola, Mississippi. Burton Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

Dean was born on April 11, 1950, in Indianola, the son of the late Henry Oliver and Nita Way and Fadie Mae Hawkins Way. He was a graduate of Indianola High School class of 1968. He continued his education at Delta State University. Dean also proudly served in the United States Army National Guard.

Dean had a love of cars and always looked forward to traveling each year to Cruisin' on the Coast with family and friends. He was a member of the Mississippi Corvette Club. His love for vegetable gardening came from many years of watching his dad garden. When he wasn't browsing flea markets and antique stores, he enjoyed watching old Western movies.

Dean loved his family dearly and was especially thankful for his wife, Fran, who took excellent care of him throughout this difficult time.

Dean will be greatly missed by his wife, Fran; two daughters, Wendy Way of Madison, MS; Dawn Bryant (Chad) of Greenville, MS; one son, Keith Strickland (Tammy) of DeWitt, AR; nine grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind two brothers, Rick Way of Port Richey, FL, and Bobby Way (Teresa) of Hot Springs, AR, and a sister, Sandy Smith (Pete) of Pearland, TX, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.