Alan Dean Campbell, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on August 13, 2025, at his home in Galloway, Ohio. Born on February 26, 1954, in Columbus, Ohio, Dean was the cherished son of the late Walter Dean Campbell and Thelma Lenora (Gallagher) Campbell.
Dean was preceded in death by his devoted wife of 25 years, Dana Toy Campbell. He is survived by his daughter, M. Lauren Blake, and son-in-law, Dustin Blake; his treasured grandchildren: Olivia Leggans, Remington Blake, Campbell Blake, and Harrison Blake; his sisters, S. Diane Weier (husband Robin) and N. Darlene Campbell; his brother-in-law, David Toy; his beloved extended family; and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
A 1972 graduate of Westland High School, Dean went on to earn his Bachelor’s degree in Art from Harding College (now Harding University) in Searcy, Arkansas, in 1978. After Harding, he shared his artistic gifts by teaching art. He was especially proud of his work with Ralph Bell, whose paintings are part of the collections at the Columbus Museum of Art and the Springfield Museum of Art.
Dean’s professional life included many years in print production, where his meticulous eye for detail and artistic sensibilities were widely admired. An artist at heart, he found joy in creating, teaching, and inspiring others to see beauty in the world around them.
A man of deep faith, Dean was a long-standing member of Reynoldsburg Church of Christ. He and Dana served their community faithfully, most notably by leading the church’s food pantry for many years. Known for his ready smile and warm laugh, Dean brought light to every room and made others feel valued and loved.
Above all, Dean cherished his role as “Pa” to his grandchildren. He took great joy in bringing them along to church events, engaging them in intense and laughter-filled games of the board game Carrom, and sharing his love for art through patient teaching and encouragement. His wisdom, humor, and unwavering love will be forever remembered and deeply missed.
Family and friends will gather to honor Dean’s life on Friday, August 29, 2025 at Reynoldsburg Church of Christ, 1649 Graham Road, Reynoldsburg, Ohio. Visitation will be held from 1:00 - 3:00 P.M., with the funeral service to follow at 3:00 P.M.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Reynoldsburg Community of Care, payable to Reynoldsburg Church of Christ, in memory of Dean and Dana’s shared legacy of faith and service.
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