Marcus Dean

Grave of Marcus Dean

The following biographical sketch of Marcus Dean was taken from a 1984 report on the cemetery housed at the historical society.

Marcus Dean, better known as "Uncle Marcus," was born about 1800 and died June 3, 1889 at the age of 88. By trade, he was first a stone-wall builder. In later years he became a shoemaker, as did so many in this area. He never married. He was a devoted member of the New Castle Methodist Church, at one time being a class leader.

Without funds and almost blind in his later years, the Methodist Church Trustees and other persons in the village contributed to his support. Probably his gravestone was provided by the same friends.

Update: I found Marcus Dean's original obituary from 1889 at the historical society:

This aged resident of the village has at last passed away and joined the innumerable throng beyond the grave. Mr. Dean died on Monday morning of this week, June 3rd, at about two o'clock, aged 89 years. He had been in very feeble health for some time past, and two weeks ago signs of the approaching end appeared.

Mr. Dean was born in or near this village, and has always lived here. In the earlier years of his manhood, he was a stone wall builder, but after awhile followed the occupation of making shoes.

For many years past he has been unable to do any work, by reason of his advanced age, and the failing of his eyesight and general activity. He has lived in the rooms over Mr. Nelson Grey's shoe shop, and for a year or so past has boarded with him, and been taken care of by Mr. and Mrs. Grey.

Mr. Dean was a faithful member of the M. E. Church, and was a veteran in its service. When he became unable to any longer support himself the Church took upon itself that duty, and by contributions provided for his necessary expenses. Other friends outside also rendered generous aid, chief among them being Mr. T. G. Mathews of New York, a former resident of this village.

The deceased was unmarried. He leaves one sister, Mrs. Wm. Thorne, of Danbury, and a niece Mrs. Robert Sayers, also of Danbury.