Teresa C. Dean Obituary

Dr. Teresa "Terri" C. Dean of Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away peacefully Monday, September 20, 2021 at Baptist Medical Center in Jacksonville at the age of 76. She was born to "John-O" and Rachel Clements on January 6, 1945, in Griffin, Georgia. She was a cherished child and a popular student. From Griffin she moved to Atlanta, GA with her young family to pursue her education and a career.

She received an undergraduate degree from Georgia State University and a master's degree in anthropology from Duke University. She met Mark, the love of her life, in 1984. They were married in 1986 and remained happily married for 35 years. Mark and Terri were devoted to one another and traveled the world together, seeking adventure and exploring other countries.

Terri was naturally curious about other cultures and travel was her passion. For her "Second Act", Terri realized her lifelong dream of receiving her doctorate in psychology. She was a practicing psychologist for many years, diligent and dedicated to her clients. For her "Third Act", Terri's psychology expertise and world travels led to the authoring of several books and guest lecturing.

She never stopped growing or learning. Terri thrived in her adopted home of Fernandina Beach and was active in the community. She served in many roles during her years on the island, including serving a year as Director of the Amelia Island Book Festival, as a board member of Friends of the Library Fernandina Beach, and as a member of the Arts & Culture Nassau Committee.

She also participated in many other activities, including bridge club, teaching classes locally, and hosting art therapy at The Book Loft. She was preceded in death by her parents, John-O Clements & Rachel Johnson. She is survived by her dearly beloved husband, Mark Dean, daughter Jennifer Blount of Atlanta, GA; daughter Julie Stephens, of Atlanta, GA; and son-in-law, Brad Mears of Atlanta, GA.

Terri was kind, brilliant, energetic, and much beloved by family and her many friends. She will be deeply missed. A celebration of her life will be held at Oxley-Heard Funeral Home on Amelia Island, October 15, 2021 at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Friends of the Library Fernandina Beach https://fernandinafol.org.