Beloved Ocala Community Member Dana Dearing Passes Away at 78

Beloved Ocala Community Member Dana Dearing Passes Away at 78

The community of Ocala is mourning the loss of Dana Thomas Dearing, who passed away on August 9, 2025, at the age of 78, in his home. Born on October 30, 1946, in Orlando, Florida, Dana was the son of Colonel Hugh H. Dearing and Theresa Marie Egnor Dearing. He was a devoted member of Living Waters Church, where he volunteered as an Usher and a member of the Security Team, reflecting his commitment to both his faith and the community.

Throughout his impressive 40-year career, Dearing made a name for himself at the Cameron and Barkley Corporation, excelling in sales for industrial and electrical products. His ability to connect with people was legendary, enabling him to forge lasting relationships that contributed to his professional success. Having lived in Ocala for over three decades, Dearing was a well-known figure in the area, contributing significantly to local life through his church involvement and community service.

Family and Legacy

Dearing is survived by his son Jason Dearing, a Rapid Resolution Specialist, his daughter Amanda Dearing, a Cybersecurity Analyst, and other family members. He will be remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for his warmth and generosity. The upcoming memorial service will honor his life on August 23, with a viewing at 1:00 PM and a memorial service following at 1:30 PM, both at Church On The Drive, formerly known as College Park Baptist Church. A graveside committal service is planned at Glen Haven Memorial Park in Winter Park.

Dearing was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Hugh H. Dearing II and Richard Milton Dearing. His family and friends remember him as a loving father and a faithful servant of his church, who always placed his loved ones at the heart of his activities.

Broader Business Context

In the business world, there have also been significant developments involving Dana Incorporated, although unrelated to Dearing’s passing. The company recently announced a definitive agreement to sell its Off-Highway business to Allison Transmission Holdings, Inc. for a striking $2.7 billion. According to Dana, this sale is valued at seven times the expected adjusted EBITDA for the Off-Highway business in 2025 and is indicative of a strategic shift towards focusing on light- and commercial-vehicle systems.

This transaction, expected to close by late Q4 of 2025, will allow Dana to generate approximately $2.4 billion in net cash proceeds after tax and expenses, which the company plans to use to repay about $2 billion of debt. Preparing for a robust future, Dana’s board has also authorized a $1 billion capital return program to benefit shareholders up to 2027.

As an interesting parallel, both Dana Dearing and Dana Incorporated share a commitment to service, be it in the personal realm or in the dynamic world of business. While Dearing’s legacy is rooted in personal connections within his community, Dana Incorporated is looking to solidify its future through significant financial maneuvers.

In closing, Dana Thomas Dearing’s life reminds us of the impact one individual can have on their community, and the importance of cherishing our loved ones while navigating the complexities of life and business. As we gather to celebrate his life, we reflect on how he made a good deal of difference in the lives of those around him.