John Dale Dean, 91, of Madisonville, Texas passed away on February 4, 2026, in Bryan, Texas. He was born on October 19, 1934, to David Forrest and Trudy Gurtrude (Hoke) Dean in Madison County, Texas.

John Dale, also known as "PalPal" was a gentle soul with a heart of gold. His kindness knew no bounds, and his soft-spoken nature left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him. He dedicated his life to helping others and lovingly raised many generations, embodying the ideal of a perfect grandfather. A devoted Christian, John Dale found joy in his faith, and his love for the Lord was evident in all he did.

John Dale cherished the time spent with his family, engaging in heartfelt conversations and sharing stories that brought smiles and warmth to every gathering. His nurturing spirit and profound capacity for compassion were especially evident in his love for babies, which reflected his gentle heart and ability to connect with others in meaningful ways.

John Dale was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Betty Dean; daughter, Sharon Rigby; son, Jerry Dean; and siblings, Margette, Freddie, Kathleen, Sterling, Jimmy and Joe Ben.

He is survived by his daughters, Debra Eagle (Tim) of Falling Waters, West Virginia and Tammy Holder (Howard) of Hilltop Lakes, Texas; sisters, Shirley and Betty; grandchildren, Howard Holder Jr. (Alyx), Crystal Merchant, Kellie Holder, Crissy Taber (Bill), Jonathan Rigby, John Eagle (Kim), Mary Gooden (Lawrence), Amanda Eagle, and Max Holder; great-grandchildren, Tyler, Hayden, Clayton, Callie, Riley, Savannah, John Dale, Cheyenne, Trent, Lexi, Destiny, Zoey, Joseph, and Dylan; great-great-grandchildren, Koral, Bryliee, Asher, and Tate on-the-way; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

A funeral service for John Dale will be held at 3 P.M., Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Madisonville Funeral Home, Madisonville, Texas. Pastor Lon McVeigh will officiate the service. Interment will follow in Willowhole Cemetery, North Zulch, Texas.

Pallbearers: Howard Holder Jr., William Lewis, John Holder, Tyler Holder, Travis Kelly Jr., Hayden Hoover

Honorary Pallbearers: Jonathan Rigby, JD Eagle, W. W. Lewis, Clayton Merchant, Dylan Eagle, Joseph Rigby, Asher Elverud, John Dale Holder, Trent Holder

Arrangements are under the direction of Madisonville Funeral Home, Madisonville, Texas -- A Walters Family Funeral Home.