Tulsa Family Still Searching For Answers 22 Years After Daughter’s Death

Dena Dean left work on June 6, 1998 and never made it home. Dean was found dead six days later.

Her parents have hosted a vigil and cookout every year since her death to keep her memory alive.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Deans have decided to keep the gathering small this year and turn the vigil virtual instead of doing a large, in-person event.

The family is asking people to express their love for Dena by lighting a candle and posting it on social media to make sure her memory remains. Those who want to participate can tag Dena Dean’s page on Facebook.

“It’s tough not having answers each year,” Dena’s mother, Diana Dean, said. “We hope and pray we get them before the next memorial. When we don’t, it’s tough. We’ve been on an up and down roller coaster for 22 years.”

Dena’s father, Larry, said the pandemic may have changed the way vigil is held, but it hasn’t changed his need to know who killed his daughter.

“I’d like the suspects to know just because the virus stopped everything it didn’t stop me,” Larry Dean said. “I’m still out there looking.”

The Deans said they are grateful for all the Tulsa County Task Force has done and will do to seek justice for their daughter.

The family asked that if you or anyone you know has information on a cold case of any kind, please call your local authorities and give them that information.