Mr. Robert "Dean" Phifer, 84, passed away December 1, 2025. He was born February 26, 1941 to the late Robert Lee Phifer and Mildred Phifer. Dean worked alongside his brother, Gary, for over 45 years as a painter. When he wasn't working, he could often be found tending to his garden and yard. He also enjoyed working with antiques and loved restoring old furniture. Above all else, Dean was a family man and loved spending time with his family. Dean will be missed and cherished in the hearts of all those who knew and loved him.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at Austin Grove Baptist Church, 5919 Austin Grove Church Rd, Marshville, NC 28103. Mr. Phifer will be laid to rest in the church cemetery immediately following the service.

The family will receive friends at the church prior to the service from 10:00am until 10:45am.

In addition to his parents, Dean is preceded in passing by his daughter, Ginger Counts; brother, W.D. Phifer, and several other close family members.

Dean is survived by his daughter, Tammy Purser (Travis), grandchildren, Makenzi Purser, Bayden Purser,Marissa Counts, and Dillan Counts; son-in-law, Michael Counts, siblings, Sadie Phillips, Doris Edwards, Vickie Phifer, and Gary Phifer (Kathy), and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family would like to acknowledge Anson Health and Rehab in Wadesboro for their exceptional care to Dean during his long-term stay at their facility.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Atrium Health Hospice of Union County - 700 W. Roosevelt Blvd, Monroe, NC 28110.

Holland Funeral Service is serving the Phifer Family.