Ethel Jenkins Dean, Obituary
In the obituary for Elbert Dean Sr.'s first wife, the Merkel Mail stated that her husband was "one of our most worthy and popular young countrymen."
Stories abound by many family members that Elbert was so devastated by the loss of Ethel, that friends and family feared for his health. He went constantly and mourned on the grave of his deceased, teen-age bride.
Ethel Jenkins Dean Memorial
First Wife of Elbert Dean, Sr.
Rose Hill Cemetery, Merkel Texas
Just west, and a little south, of main Dean plot. Tall marker just over the top left of Ethel's memorial is Richard Hulan Dean's memorial.
(photo by David Riney)
Inscription at bottom of Ethel Dean Memorial:
Again we hope to meet thee
When the day of life is fled,
And in Heaven with joy to greet thee
Where no farewell tears are shed.
Ethel Jenkins Dean, Eulogy
by Her Uncle