Randel George Dees

It is with great sorrow and deep respect that we announce the passing of Randel George Dees, a proud U.S. Coast Guard veteran, dedicated father, loving son, and lifelong servant to his country, who passed away on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at the age of 64. Randel was a beloved member of the Sunset Beach, NC, community, and previously called Fayetteville, NC, home. He was a man of unwavering integrity, deeply devoted to his family, his country, and his faith.

Randel was born on December 27, 1960, in Cumberland County, NC, to the late George Dewey Dees and Betty Jane Beasley Dees. He proudly served in the U.S. Coast Guard for 22 years, protecting the waters of this great nation with honor and distinction. His commitment to his country and the values it stands for was unwavering. After his retirement from the military, Randel continued to serve others in different capacities, working as a Texas rancher and hunting guide. His love for the outdoors, particularly hunting and fishing, was a defining aspect of his life, allowing him to share his passion for nature with others while fostering friendships with those who shared similar interests.

In addition to his military service, Randel was a highly skilled professional welder, operating his own business, Dees Fabrication and Welding Services. His craftsmanship and dedication to his trade earned him the respect of many within his community. Whether he was helping a neighbor with a project or creating intricate, custom pieces, Randel’s expertise and attention to detail were unparalleled. His work ethic and integrity shone through in all that he did, and he was known as the "salt of the earth" kind of man – dependable, hardworking, and genuinely kind-hearted.

Randel’s faith in the Lord was central to his life, and he carried the teachings of Christ with him in every aspect of his being. His strength, character, and kindness were rooted in his devotion to his faith, his family, and his community. He was the kind of man who made a lasting impact on everyone he encountered.

Randy had finally found his soulmate in life, Beth McCree. Randy had a bright future and so many big plans for a life with his beloved Beth.

He was preceded in death by his beloved son, John Randel Dees; and his mother, Betty Simmons. His legacy lives on through his surviving family, including his son, Dr. Colter Waylon Dees, Pharm.D. R.Ph; sisters, Beverly Hall and her husband Daniel, Angela R. Musselwhite, and Jessica Pilcher and her husband Brandon; his father, Jessie F. Simmons; granddaughter, Arianna Dees; and a host of cherished aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and many close friends.

The family will receive friends at Suggs Grove Baptist Church from 11:00 AM to 11:50 AM on Saturday, February 22, 2025. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 PM in the church sanctuary, with a graveside service to follow in the church cemetery.

The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to a veterans’ organization or a charity that supports the outdoor community, in honor of Randel's life and passions.

Arrangements are entrusted to Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home, 545 Ramsey St., Fayetteville, NC 28301. Online condolences may be made at www.jerniganwarren.com.

Randel George Dees will be dearly missed by all who knew him, and his memory will forever be cherished. May he rest in peace.

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