I was born on March 15, 1951, in Potts Camp, Mississippi, but my journey began more than 2,000 years ago on Calvary when Jesus Christ laid down His life so that I might "have life and have it more abundantly." My birth, assisted by a midwife, in an iron bed in my maternal grandparents' modest home, was the beginning of a life filled with love, hope, and many challenges that I had to overcome. I learned how to survive and thrive in a culture wrought with systemic racism that is stilted against persons like me. I thank the Lord for His grace and mercy, for without Him, I don't know where I would be. It is because of Him that I was able to achieve success in many areas of my life and use wisely the gifts that He has given me.
This book is my story, one that I hope will be a testament to the trials and tribulations I have overcome as well as a lasting legacy of the contributions that I made-by the grace of God-to American society. This is a success story that I hope will inspire my sons and other Black men, women, boys, and girls who must cope with racism in this country, in addition to the everyday challenges of life. I also hope that my White peers will read these words and stop to ask themselves what it's like to be a person of color in our culture. More importantly, I pray that as God continues to reveal His plan for my life that I will be attentive and obedient to His will.
My story highlights how I beat the odds and overcame-or at least managed as best I could-numerous adversities in my life.
"During our life journey, all of us face crises, challenges, and disappointment. Dean's thought-provoking book provides real-life examples of overcoming tragic and deeply challenging situations. Facing health crises, racism, the death of his spouse, and job disappointments, he still managed to overcome and provide a lifetime of distinguished service to others."
HAROLD MEZILE, Former President/CEO, YMCA of the Greater Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota
"In Overcoming, Willie Dean shows both his human vulnerability and spiritual faith (that without question grew deeper and stronger from every adversity and challenge he faced, endured, and overcame). I applaud Willie for being candid about the struggles and setbacks he's faced professionally and personally and his openness about God's faithfulness during these times."
-REV. CARLA M. MITCHELL, Former Pastor, St. Peter's AME Church, Minneapolis, Minnesota
"A must-read, Overcoming is not only a classic example of how a Black man navigated a path to success in a world so obstinately opposed to him, but it also is a moving illustration of the power of love...love of God, family, and mankind. Insightful, timely, sensitive, and transformative."
-GLORIA SPIGHT, Former Teacher, Memphis City Schools
