Committal
Carl “Dean” Hennessee, Jr. known to family and friends simply as Dean, of Morganton, North Carolina, passed away June 20, 2025 leaving behind a legacy defined by service, honor, and unwavering devotion to those he loved.
Born December 6, 1960, Dean was a lifelong resident of Burke County. He served his country with distinction in the United States Army before beginning a respected and dedicated career in law enforcement. He began his service with Morganton Public Safety and later joined the Burke County Sheriff’s Department where he served as a valued member of the Burke County Sheriff’s Narcotics Task Force. His work in that unit reflected his commitment to justice and protecting those most vulnerable. He would go on to retire with the rank of Captain—a title earned through years of steady leadership and tireless dedication.
Dean is survived by his wife, Karen Lowman Hennessee, with whom he shared a life of love, partnership, and enduring devotion. He was a proud and loving father to their three children: Kasey Maria Hennessee, Jessica Elise Hennessee, and Carl Dean Hennessee, III. His family was his greatest pride and his role as husband and father was the one he cherished most.
He is also survived by his mother, Juliana Hennessee, two sisters: Linda Hennessee Melton and husband Larry Melton and Judy Hennessee Cooper and husband Eben Cooper. Dean was a cherished uncle to numerous nieces and nephews.
Those who knew Dean will remember him as a man of quiet dignity, deep integrity, and steadfast service. Whether in uniform or at home, he led by example and lived a life grounded in loyalty, strength, and compassion. His presence will be deeply missed, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the Oak Hill UMC MPAC Center on Tuesday, June 24, 2025 at 3:00 pm for family and friends to share in Dean’s final roll call with visitation immediately following the service.
Military Honors will be provided by the NC National Guard and Caldwell County Veterans Honor Guard.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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My heart breaks with this news. Dean and I went to rookie school together and so many other classes while we work together. He’ll be greatly missed. He was a true friend. My condolences go out to his family.

Sending prayers, love and support to Karen and the family. Dean's obituary describes him 100% Spot On! People were "better" people for knowing him. Our friendship began during our sophomore year at Freedom high school. Dean was always exceptionally solid...the "white hat" in our crowd. We shared volumes of great memories that ranged from busting out laughter to head shacking "maybe re-think that" comments from Dean that began in the days of 8 tracks and lasted to the days of titanium replacements. He left us way too soon! Dean was an incredible husband, father, and friend who lead by example on a daily basis. Knowing we will see him again helps the sting of this loss.
Karen, I am very sorry to hear this. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. Trina Barrier

Karen, I am so sorry to hear about Dean. Praying for you and your family in the days ahead.
I had the wonderful opportunity to work with Dean as I started my law enforcement career at MDPS. He was someone I looked up to as a leader and knew I could rely on in any situation. I was saddened to hear of his passing. Prayers for Karen and the rest of the family during this difficult time.

So sorry to hear of Dean's passing. Prayers for this special family. My God hold you in comfort and peace.
We are so thankful for the Hennesee Family, we appreciate Dean for serving our country and also serving in Law Enforcement. We are thankful for their Daughter Jesse and her friendship with our daughter Dara . So much thanks for Jesse’s mom & Dad and all they did for Dara , especially with helping the girls get moved into their apartment while in college at APP University. We are praying the family’s loss & praying for God to comfort their hearts! Love & prayers ❤️🙏 Davis family

Prayers for all of you.
Very sorry to hear of Dean's passing. Have fond memories of him trying to teach me to shoot, and of the stories he told me during the making of our film. He was a gentleman. Love and prayers to Karen, Juli, Linda and all the family. X