Stanley Dean Earp age 89, of Boone passed away Friday October 10, 2025, at the Foley Center.

He was born July 30, 1936, in Watauga County. The son of the late Ronda and Gertie Earp.

Dean was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and a friend to many.  He always saw the best in everyone and was kind to all he met.  He lived the golden rule - treating others as he wanted to be treated.

A downtown merchant for 30 years, he met and served many people with a handshake and a smile.  The phrase "he could sell ice cubes to an Eskimo" has been used many times to describe his salesmanship.  He built the business from the ground up and it thrived until he retired in 2001.  After his retirement he enjoyed his time playing golf and traveling.

Dean proudly served his country in the Air Force and was stationed in several places including Korea.  He enjoyed his time in the service and the opportunity to see the sites around the globe.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff on Hall 500 of the Foley Center for their care and kindness to Dean.

He is survived by his wife, Alma Tester Earp of Boone; one daughter, Sara Speed of Boone; one son, Len Earp and wife Maria of Lawrenceville, Georgia; one granddaughter, Zoe Grace Earp of Leland, North Carolina; one sister, Mary Stansbery and husband Edward of Mountain City, Tennessee and one sister-in-law and part time caregiver, Judy Stansbery of Boone. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his father and mother he was preceded in death by, one granddaughter, Victoria Lynn Earp, five brothers, Raymond, Robert, Dewey, Jack and Johnny Earp, father and mother in-law, Stacy and Hazel Tester and one son-in-law, Tom Speed.

Funeral services will be conducted 2:00 P.M. Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at Brushy Fork Baptist Church. Interment will follow in Mount Lawn Memorial Park and Gardens. Reverend John Mark Brown, Reverend Ernie Richards and Reverend Mitch Marlowe will officiate.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00, prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Brushy Fork Baptist Church, 3915 US-421, Vilas, NC 28692.

Online condolences may be sent to the Earp family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com

Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.