Billy Dean Finley

Dean Finley, also known as Coach Finley, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2026, at the age of 75. Born on November 7, 1950, Dean was a lifelong resident of the Central and Liberty communities. He was the son of the late Billy Finley and Mary Lee Finley of Liberty and is survived by his beloved wife of more than 30 years, Elizabeth "Nuni" Finley; his daughters, Samantha Hansen and Mandy Finley of Mauldin, SC; his stepdaughters, Duski Coleman of Central, SC and Evans Coleman of Pendleton, SC; and his grandsons, Hap Hansen and Cooper Koinskie.

A graduate of Liberty High School, Dean continued his education at Anderson Junior College before earning his bachelor's degree from Charleston Southern University and a Master's degree in Administration from Furman University. Education was his calling. He devoted his entire career to serving students, teachers, and families in public education, including many years with Anderson School District 4 and the Pickens County School District. He retired at the age of 63 as Vice Principal of Central Elementary School, where he was respected for his steady leadership, dedication, and genuine care for the teachers and children entrusted to his school. Retirement did little to slow him down, as he continued serving his community as a driver's education instructor.

For more than 30 years, Dean shared a loving and devoted marriage with his wife, Elizabeth. They found happiness in each other's companionship, spending quiet evenings at home working puzzles together, tending their yard, and sharing the simple pleasures of everyday life. Dean took particular pride in his tomato garden and had a remarkable gift for growing beautiful flowers that brightened the neighborhood. He also had a big heart for animals and enjoyed feeding the deer that wandered through their yard. Dean’s love for dogs meant there was always a house full for companionship.

Long before any title or accomplishment, Dean considered being a father his greatest privilege. After raising his daughters, Samantha and Mandy, for many years as a single father, the bond they built remained the center of his life. They shared daily phone calls and text messages, celebrated life's milestones together, and his daughters were his constant companions for the Clemson traditions they enjoyed. His unwavering love, guidance, and presence shaped their lives.

A lifelong IPTAY member, Dean was a devoted Clemson Tiger fan, with a particular passion for Clemson football and baseball. He never missed a home baseball game with the Third Base Crew. During football season he was known for arriving earlier than almost anyone, staying until the very last second, never willing to miss a single play, and yet somehow still being the first car out of the parking lot to beat the traffic home.

Dean will be remembered for his quiet generosity, unwavering dedication to education, deep love for his family, loyal friendships, Clemson spirit, sense of humor, and the kindness he showed to everyone. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he influenced over decades and we will miss him dearly.

The family will receive friends on Monday, June 29, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home.

Funeral service will be held Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at 11:00 in the chapel of Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home. A private burial will follow.

Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions can be made to Pickens County Humane Society, 500 Five Forks Road, Liberty, SC 29657.

Visit RobinsonFuneralHomes.com or Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home & Cremations, Central-Clemson Commons.