Dean Thomas Beckman's Obituary
Dean Thomas Beckman, age 72, of Newberry, Florida, passed away on June 30, 2026, at home surrounded by his family.
Dean was born on November 17, 1953, in Tacoma, Washington, to Paul LePage Beckman and Maria Lorna Paras Beckman. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law, Keith Jones.
Dean is survived by his beloved wife of 23 years, Betty Jean Thompson Beckman. He also leaves behind his children, Joseph Coy Stevens, Rachel Charlyne Jackson (Brent), Daniel Eric Stevens (Yuko), and John Kenneth Hoag (Kristin); his sister, Kathi Beckman Jones; his brother, Paul LePage Beckman Jr. (Linda); and his cherished grandchildren, Madalyn Jean Darwin, Kinslee Grace Hoag, Ocean Arroyo, and Norah Jackson. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews, Melissa Dorothy (Nick) Casey Jones (Stephanie), Kristian LePage Jones (Julie), and Jamie LePage Beckman, along with many extended family members and dear friends.
Dean came from a proud military family, a foundation that helped shape his deep patriotism, strong values, and unwavering respect for those who served our country. He was a devoted supporter of the United States military and remained grateful for the sacrifices made by service members throughout his life.
Dean dedicated 35 years of service to Santa Fe College, where he worked as the Audio Visual Service Manager. He took great pride in his work and the relationships he built over the years. He was also an active member of the Gainesville Bowlers Association for many years and enjoyed the fellowship of the Elks Lodge and Eagles Club in Gainesville.
Dean found joy in life’s simple pleasures and in the passions that made him who he was. He had many titles but his favorite one of all was being called “Gramps” . He was a lover of art, a devoted student of history, and could often be found immersed in stories of the past. He was a loyal fan of the New York Yankees, the Florida Gators, and Notre Dame. He was always cheering on his teams with enthusiasm. He loved gathering each week to play trivia with his beloved “Team Stooges,” listening to local bands, and enjoying all types of music. Known for his friendly nature, quick wit, and genuine kindness, Dean had a way of making everyone feel welcome.
Above all, Dean cherished the life he built with his beloved wife, Betty. Whether spending quiet moments together or surrounded by family and friends, their time together was one of his greatest joys. He treasured his family deeply and will be remembered for his love, loyalty, patriotism, and the laughter and warmth he brought into the lives of those around him.
A Celebration of Dean’s Life Service will be held on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Williams-Thomas Funeral Home, 823 NW 143rd Street, Newberry, Florida. The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the service. Burial will follow at Forest Meadows Cemetery West. Please visit Dean’s memorial page at https://www.williamsthomasfuneralhome.com In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Santa Fe College Veterans Organization in Dean’s honor by clicking this link, https://secure.qgiv.com/for/donationsinlieuofflowers
What’s your fondest memory of Dean?
What’s a lesson you learned from Dean?
Share a story where Dean's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Dean you’ll never forget.
How did Dean make you smile?