Regina A Dean

In Loving Memory of Regina Anne Dean (Schiefen)

On May 31, 2026, our hearts were broken as we said goodbye to our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and matriarch, Regina Anne Dean (Schiefen), of Elmira, New York. Regina was born on July 25, 1934, and spent 91 years showing those around her what unconditional love, strength, and devotion truly looked like.

Regina was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Edward Dean, her son, Timothy Dean, and her daughter, Karen Dean. While we take comfort in knowing they have been reunited, her absence leaves an immeasurable void in the lives of those who loved her.

She leaves behind her children, Michael Dean (Carolyn), Terrance Dean, Deborah Horton (Bruce), Lisa O'Neil (Kevin), and Christine Dean; her 18 cherished grandchildren and 23 treasured great-grandchildren; along with extended family members and dear friends who were blessed to know her.

To know Regina was to know love. Family was the center of her world and the greatest joy of her life. Nothing made her happier than being surrounded by the people she loved. She cherished every opportunity to care for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, creating memories that will be treasured for generations. Her home was a place where everyone was welcome, where stories were shared, laughter filled the room, and love was felt in abundance.

Regina had a gift for bringing people together. She loved entertaining, reminiscing about the past, celebrating the present, and dreaming about the future with those closest to her. She enjoyed shopping, but what truly brought her joy was giving to others. She had the biggest heart and was always willing to help, especially when it came to her family. If someone she loved needed her, she was there without hesitation.

She was strong in ways that words cannot fully capture. Through every challenge life placed before her, she carried herself with resilience, grace, and determination. Her family looked to her for comfort, guidance, and unwavering support.

If Regina could leave us with one final lesson, it would be simple: love one another. She would remind us that disagreements come and go, but family is forever. She would want us to cherish every moment, hold our loved ones close, and never take our time together for granted.

While we mourn her loss, we also celebrate a life beautifully lived and a legacy that will continue through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all those whose lives she touched. We will honor her by carrying forward the love, compassion, and strength she showed us every day.

Though she may no longer walk beside us, she will forever live in our hearts, our memories, and the stories we share. We will miss her deeply, love her always, and remember her forever.

Rest peacefully, Grandma. Your love will remain with us always.