Durwood "Dean" Durham

Durwood “Dean” Durham, 75, of Highland, IL, passed away on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at Evercare of Breese.

He was born on May 14, 1951, in East St. Louis, IL, to Harold Dean and Parlia “Polly” (nee Hurst) Durham. On September 17, 1977, he married Vicki Gauen at the Evangelical Church in Collinsville, IL.

Dean and Vicki have lived in Highland since the summer of ’92, moving from Collinsville, IL. He graduated from Collinsville High School in 1969, then got his Associate’s in Criminal Justice and Pre-Law from Belleville Area College, then attended SIUE to continue his education in practicing Law. Dean held many jobs throughout his life, but mostly he was a self employed contractor doing automotive corporation training. He enjoyed working and volunteering with the Looking Glass Playhouse in Lebanon, IL, and the old Highland Animal Shelter. Staying up to date on current news events was also a favorite pastime for Dean. He was a family man, loving to spend time with his grandchildren and his many rescue fur babies. Dean was kind, compassionate, generous, and hardworking. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold Dean and Polly Durham; son, Kyle Durham; and brother-in-law, Roger Gauen.

Dean is survived by his wife of almost 49 years, Vicki Durham, Highland, IL; son, Matthew “Matt” (Gina) Durham, IL; daughter-in-law, Heather Durham, AZ; grandchildren, Travis, Andrea, Aden, Jack, Paige, and Emersyn; brother-in-law, Patrick (Karen) Gauen; and many extended family members and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project’s Project.

Memorial Visitation: Wednesday, September 16, 2026, from 12:00 to 3:00 pm, at Meridith Funeral Home, Highland, IL

Memorial Service: Wednesday, September 16, 2026, 3:00 pm, at Meridith Funeral Home, Highland, IL

Clergy: Deacon Glenn Netemeyer

Meridith Funeral Home, Highland, IL