[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 157 (Friday, September 11, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E827]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF BILLIE DEAN

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. VAL BUTLER DEMINGS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 11, 2020

  Mrs. DEMINGS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of 
City of Apopka Commissioner, Billie Dean. Commissioner Dean passed away 
on Saturday, September 5, 2020, but his life of service will continue 
to make a difference in the lives of others for decades to come.
  Mr. Dean proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, 
earning the Bronze Star for his heroism on the battlefield.
  After his military service, Commissioner Dean attended Florida 
Agricultural and Mechanical University and received a master's degree 
in Agriculture. Commissioner Dean was a proud, ``rattler'' and everyone 
knew it! He was one of the most enthusiastic alumnus and served as an 
inspiration to young adults in college or preparing for the journey. 
Commissioner Dean had a long-standing career spanning 38 years as an 
agriculture teacher at both Phyllis Wheatley High School and Apopka 
High School. He fully understood that education was the key to success, 
and he committed to ensuring that his students were prepared for the 
future.
  Billie Dean loved Apopka and he was willing to do the work necessary 
to make the place he called home a great place to live, work, and 
visit. After retiring from the school system, he was elected to the 
Apopka City Commission. A visionary with a powerful voice, Commissioner 
Dean worked tirelessly to revitalize South Apopka by creating state of 
the art facilities, enhancing affordable housing opportunities, and 
increasing public safety.
  Commissioner Dean served on the city commission with honor and 
distinction for 24 years before retiring as the Vice Mayor.
  Madam Speaker, Mr. Dean was a true public servant. His unselfish 
service to his country and community has truly made a positive 
difference in the city of Apopka, in the State of Florida, and the 
United States of America. We are grateful for a life well lived.

                          ____________________