Harold Dean Thomas Millikan

Harold Dean Thomas Millikan, age 86, of Asheboro passed away on Friday, December 26, 2025, at his home. He was predeceased by his parents, four brothers, and one sister.

Dean was born December 12, 1939, in Randolph County. He graduated from Asheboro High School, class of 1958, where he was a member of the wrestling team. He grew up working in his family’s business, Millikan Sausage Company. Later, he was co-owner for over 50 years of Thomas Brothers Country Ham Company in Asheboro. He served his country as a member of the North Carolina National Guard. He was a long-time member of Central Methodist Church where he served in many capacities including board of trustees, administrative board, parsonage committee, board of ushers, and was involved in upkeep of the building and grounds of the church. He was also a long-time member of the Good News Sunday school class. He enjoyed being outdoors, particularly hunting out West and with friends at the family farm in Alleghany County.

Friends and family found him to be a loyal, hardworking, quiet, unassuming gentleman. Dean was always willing to lend a helping hand and did so quite often.

He enjoyed the couples bridge and travel club of which he and Rachel were members. Trips to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, Williamsburg, Virginia, Charleston, South Carolina, and Lexington, Kentucky, were particularly fun excursions shared with longtime friends.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Rachel Trogdon Millikan; daughters, Neal and Anna; grandchildren, Millie and Mack; and siblings Louise, Gaynell, and Ronnie.

Funeral service will be held Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at 2 pm at Central Methodist Church, 300 S. Main Street, Asheboro. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at New Hope Community Church Cemetery, 4215 New Hope Church Road, Asheboro.

Memorials may be made to Central Methodist Church, New Hope Community Church, or to the charity of the donor’s choice.