A much loved volunteer has been remembered with the unveiling of a memorial bench in the Volunteers’ Coffee Lounge at The James Cook University Hospital.
Barry Dean, a former merchant navy captain, was known for his warm, welcoming nature and quick wit.
Though it was his wife, Irene, who began volunteering at the coffee lounge in June 2009, Barry soon became a regular face there too—volunteering during periods when he was home from sea.
Together, they served countless cups of tea and cake, offering comfort to visitors and staff alike.
He brought with him a lifetime of stories, a gift for conversation, and a talent for making people feel at ease.
He was especially fond of talking with young people, sharing his wisdom while enjoying their banter in return.
“He loved spending time with me and because I was here, he wanted to volunteer too,” said Irene, Barry’s wife.
He had a lot of time for people, I think that came from his job and he loved being here – we have a lot of happy memories.”
Born in Lewisham, London, Barry left the London Nautical School in 1968 to begin his career at sea.
He rose through the ranks to become a captain in 1986, working for British India Steam Navigation Company, later part of Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company.
It was during shore leave in 1971 that he met Irene at the Missions to Seamen in Wilton near Redcar.
They married two years later and settled in Guisborough, raising two children, Sarah and Michael, and eventually becoming proud grandparents to Hollie, Emelia and Edward.
Paying tribute
The new bench, located in the Volunteers’ Coffee Lounge garden where Barry once served with such joy, now offers a place of reflection, conversation and connection—a true reflection of the man it commemorates.
Georgina Oakley, Volunteers’ Coffee Lounge manager said: “We have a lot of volunteers at the coffee lounge, but what always stood out about Barry was his willingness to give his time, even when he was home to rest.
“He came in to help alongside Irene with such dedication and care. He was a lovely man—caring, methodical, and always attentive to the little details that made a big difference.
“We’re truly grateful for everything he did for us, and we’re honoured that this bench now offers a quiet place for others to remember him, and for Irene and her family to feel his presence here still.”
Irene added: “Barry was a good listener, so please take a seat and tell him your stories.”