Julian I. Deal was serious, meticulous, and impactful. One need only read his obituary to learn about some of the many passions Julian Deal had in his life, whether related to his profession as a Certified Public Accountant, or as part of the many charitable endeavors with which he was associated, his intent and unwavering support could not be doubted.
Julian displayed the same seriousness in his everyday life as he did as a CPA. Two outward manifestations of Julian’s meticulous nature were his vehicles and his lawn—they were always immaculate! Judging someone by something as common place as a car or yard may seem trivial, but if someone cares enough to make sure those things are perfect, then the general organization in their life is bound to be hyper-organized as well, and that was Julian.
At Julian’s funeral service, Chaplain Nick Spletstoser mentioned that Julian even had his children and cat on a spreadsheet for expenses—now that is attention to detail!
While Julian was certainly focused on professional and philanthropic interests, he also enjoyed socializing with friends, often while watching a Georgia Southern University sports team, whether at home or on the road. As long as his health allowed, he and his wife, Frances, were fixtures at many Georgia Southern events.
Whether at a formal 1906 Society dinner or in the stands at a football game, they were staunch supporters who built long-standing relationships with the university and its followers. The awards and accolades mentioned in his obituary attest to Georgia Southern University’s appreciation of Julian Deal—but it was very much a mutual admiration relationship between Julian and the university.
For the sake of saving space, a multitude of other interests and recipients of Julian’s support were omitted from the obituary, but rest assured, his focus was wide-spread when it came to helping others.
Julian Deal long ago reached senior statesman status in Statesboro, Bulloch County, the State of Georgia, and beyond. Behind his thoughtful demeanor and reserved personality clicked an analytical mind which was always working to figure out a solution to a problem, or a way to make a connection which would benefit an organization or friend.
His influence and wise counsel will be missed by his family, friends, and associates. Frances, Barry, Becky and other family members and friends will certainly miss him the most, but the foundation he has laid for all of them give them the ability to move forward in a better world which Julian helped create—and all of us are the beneficiaries of that life well-lived.