Detroit, Michigan, September 21, 2025
News Summary
Edward Deeb, a notable community leader in Detroit, passed away at the age of 89, leaving behind a legacy of philanthropy and leadership. With over 65 years of dedicated service, Deeb was instrumental in various civic initiatives, particularly following the 1967 Detroit riots. His efforts to unite diverse communities and his extensive contributions to local organizations have made a lasting impact in the Detroit area.
Detroit, Michigan – Edward Deeb, a highly regarded community leader in the Detroit area, passed away on September 2, 2025, at the age of 89. His passing marks the end of a remarkable life dedicated to service, philanthropy, and leadership in various community initiatives for over 65 years.
Born on May 4, 1936, in Detroit, Deeb’s influence spanned local, state, and national levels, where he earned recognition as a patriot, peacemaker, entrepreneur, and youth advocate. His efforts in civic engagement included significant contributions following the tumultuous 1967 Detroit riots, where he collaborated with the U.S. Senate Investigations Committee to assess the devastation inflicted on local food stores. Notably, he played a vital role in bridging relationships between Arab and Chaldean store owners and the African American communities.
Deeb was a key figure in numerous civic and charitable organizations, serving as a past president or board member of organizations such as the Guild at Ascension/St. John Hospital and Medical Center, United Way for Southeastern Michigan, Boy Scouts, and the American Red Cross. Additionally, he contributed to public safety initiatives through his involvement with the Detroit Police Chief’s Advisory Council and Crime Stoppers.
Co-founder of Key Organizations
Throughout his lifetime, Deeb co-founded several pivotal organizations that significantly impacted the community. Among these are the Michigan Food and Beverage Association, the Michigan Youth Appreciation Foundation, and the Metro Detroit Youth Day, which draws thousands of participants each year. His dedication to youth programs earned him the 477th Point of Light Award from President George H.W. Bush.
Recognition and Awards
Deeb’s contributions did not go unnoticed. He was listed in the Who’s Who of America and received several prestigious accolades, including the MSU Distinguished Alumni Award and inductions into the Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame and the International Heritage Hall of Fame. His commitment to community service was further recognized by the FBI, which awarded him the National Director’s Community Leadership Award, and he was honored with the Ellis Island Medal of Honor and the Michiganian of the Year Award by The Detroit News.
Educational Accomplishments and Influence
Deeb graduated from Michigan State University in 1960, majoring in journalism and advertising. As a distinguished student, he earned a four-year music scholarship as a clarinetist. His passion for education continued post-graduation, where he co-founded the College of Communication Arts and Sciences Alumni Association and served as its first president. In recognition of his contributions, several facilities at the university are named in his honor.
Personal Life and Legacy
Edward Deeb resided in Grosse Pointe Shores for 40 years and was deeply involved in local community organizations, including schools and libraries. In 2018, a street on Belle Isle was dedicated as Edward Deeb Ave, commemorating his lasting impact on the Detroit community. He published a book in 2021 titled “The Go-To Guy, the Life and Times of a Detroit Area Mover, Shaker, and Peacemaker,” further cementing his legacy.
Deeb proudly served in the U.S. Air Force and Air Force Reserves. He is survived by his wife, Joanne, with whom he shared 58 years of marriage, along with two grown children, five grandchildren, and his sister Marge. He was preceded in death by his brother Raymond and his parents George and Sarah.
Visitation Details
A visitation for Edward Deeb is scheduled at A.H. Peters Funeral Home in Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan, on September 7, from 2 PM to 7 PM. Following this, a private family funeral will take place.
Through his extensive contributions and unwavering dedication, Edward Deeb leaves behind a profound legacy of service that has touched countless lives in the Detroit area and beyond.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Edward Deeb Obituary
- Wikipedia: Edward Deeb
- Legacy: Randall Leach Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Edward Deeb
- Dignity Memorial: Mary Thomas Obituary
- Google Search: Edward Deeb Detroit
Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
