After a courageous battle with cancer, Dean Anthony Smith, 70, of Fort Lauderdale, Florida left this earthly world on Monday, December 11, 2023, to join and rejoice with his four-legged babies, friends and family preceding him in death.  Dean was born on January 31, 1953, to Doris and Wilber Smith.  His father preceded him in death under Dean's loving care in the end.

Dean was a hair stylist by trade and owned Bogart's in Hampton, Virginia. After moving to Florida, he became a valued employee of Lowe's Home Improvement where he began working in the garden department and advanced to assistant store manager.  He was known for his magnificent gardens at home and ability to grow beautiful orchids.  He loved visiting the Biltmore House with his sister and viewing the massive flower gardens.

Dean is survived by his loving partner of 33 years Jeffrey Riley, his mother Doris, sister Debby Branch of Suffolk, Virginia, his nephew Brennan Branch (Michelle), beloved great nephews Tripp and Cohen, and his dear friend and mother-in-law Sue Riley Frieze.

A special thanks to Dr. Joseph Pizzolato and staff for 29  months of loving care.

A Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 PM on Monday, December 18, 2023, at R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home, 245 S Armistead Avenue, Hampton, Virginia. Visitation will be at the funeral home from 12:30 pm until 2:00 pm prior to the service.

Memorials may be directed to any no kill animal shelter or the ASPCA or CLICK HERE. .