Richard W. Deen

Richard W. “Ricky” Deen (79) of Ocala, FL, passed away on May 9, 2024, due to complications from a stroke. Ricky was born to Leon Attrice and Lossie Beach Deen on November 11, 1944, in Gainesville, FL. He graduated from Trenton High School and Central Florida Community College. After graduating, he went to work for the Florida Highway Patrol in 1968. Upon graduating from FHP Academy, he was assigned to the governor’s mansion under Governor Claude Kirk as the Governor's Dignitary Security Detail until 1969. He was later assigned to Ocala Traffic Division Troop G, and in 1979, he began working for the State Attorney's Office until 1994. After retiring from the State Attorney’s Office, he worked for the Marion County Sheriff's Office from 1995 to 1997. He returned to the State Attorney’s Office in 1997 until his retirement in 2006.

After his retirement, he enjoyed traveling, spending time on the boat on the Crystal River and going to Asheville and Fort Wilderness in his RV, but most of all, Rick enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. 

Ricky is survived by his wife of 52 years, Judy Priest Deen, two daughters, Tammy Lynn Deen and Jennifer DeenMcCord, three grandchildren, Cody, Sophia, and Conner McCord, and a great-grandson, Mason McCord. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Jeanette Deen, and brother-in-law, Douglas Priest, along with numerous nephews and nieces that he loved dearly. Ricky was predeceased by his parents, his brothers, Tommy and Clayton Deen, and his sister, Lucy Deen DeChant.

Services will be held at Unity Baptist Church on Wednesday, May 15, at 11 a.m., with a visitation at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Marion County Humane Society or Hospice of Marion County.