Eldean Graham Aldrich

EL Dean Aldrich, 89, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2025, in Mansfield, Texas.

He was born on January 20, 1936, in Adrian, Michigan, to Maynard O. and Lucille Graham Aldrich. He was raised in Eustis, Lake County, Florida, and graduated from Eustis High School in 1954.

That same year, EL Dean enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he proudly served for 23 years. He retired in 1977 as a Technical Sergeant (E-6). His distinguished military career included assignments in Jacksonville, FL; overseas tours in England, Greenland, Korea, and Hawaii; and stateside posts at Lackland AFB (TX), Biloxi (MS), Offutt (NE), Waverly (IA), and Barksdale AFB (LA). Among his many commendations, he was most proud of receiving the Joint Service Commendation Award.

After retiring from the Air Force, EL Dean continued his life of service with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office in Tampa, Florida. Beginning in 1978, he worked as a Digital Communications Dispatcher, known affectionately as "Hillsborough Five-O” his operator number was 50. He played a vital role in the early development of what would later become the 911 emergency system.

In 1986, EL Dean graduated from the Detention Academy and worked in the newly established Direct Supervision Pods. He quickly earned the nickname “POD GOD” for his leadership, dedication, and natural ability to manage and support others. He retired in 1992, having given more than 13 years of dedicated service to the Sheriff’s Office.

EL Dean was a man of many interests and passions. He loved RV travel, exploring family genealogy, working with computers, dancing, singing karaoke, and celebrating holidays surrounded by family and friends. He was known as a true gentleman, kindhearted, respectful, and always ready for a new adventure.

He is survived by his loving wife, Diane L. Aldrich, of Mansfield, TX; his sister, Maxine Aldrich Bradner Green; his children: Sharon G. Newton, EL Dean Graham Aldrich Jr., and James R. Aldrich; and his stepchildren: Kevin (Donna) McCarthy, Wyatt (Joy) James, Vivian Singletary, Vicki (Jerry) Cockerham, Victor (Phuong) Willis, Vincent (Karen) Willis, and Van Willis. He is also survived by numerous cherished nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Maynard and Lucille Aldrich; his sister, Sarah Aldrich Green; his daughter, Diane Jean Aldrich; his wife, Catherine Bennett Aldrich; and stepsons Christopher James and Daniel McCarthy.

A memorial service will be held on October 11, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Blessings Funeral Home in Mansfield, Texas.

EL Dean Aldrich will be remembered for a life of service, kindness, and love. A legacy that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.