Detroit, September 27, 2025
News Summary
Edward Deeb, a revered community leader in Detroit, passed away peacefully at 89. His legacy includes founding significant organizations and championing community development for over 65 years, notably fostering youth initiatives and promoting harmony post-1967 riots. Deeb’s contributions were recognized through numerous awards, including the Ellis Island Medal of Honor. His passing marks the end of an era for community engagement in Detroit, but his impact will be felt for generations.
Detroit – Edward Deeb, a longstanding community leader in the Detroit area, passed away peacefully at home on September 2, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on May 4, 1936, Deeb dedicated over 65 years to serving his community in numerous capacities, including as an entrepreneur, patriot, peacemaker, youth advocate, and philanthropist.
Throughout his illustrious career, Deeb played a pivotal role in many organizations at local, state, and national levels, greatly contributing to community development and fostering positive business relations. In the wake of the 1967 Detroit riots, he notably documented the damage inflicted on the city and took significant steps to mediate between divided communities and local businesses.
Deeb founded or co-founded several impactful organizations, such as the Michigan Food and Beverage Association, the Michigan Youth Appreciation Foundation, and Metro Detroit Youth Day. His leadership in organizing Metro Detroit Youth Day has been particularly significant, as this event has consistently attracted thousands of children each July for over 41 years, fostering a sense of community and celebration among the youth of the region.
In recognition of his numerous contributions to the community, Deeb received prestigious honors, including the 477th Point of Light Award from President George H.W. Bush. As a testament to his dedication and achievements, he was also awarded the Michigan State University Distinguished Alumni Award and the Ellis Island Medal of Honor.
Deeb’s educational background was rooted in journalism and advertising; he graduated from Michigan State University in 1960 with a four-year music scholarship. He later served as the former editor of Corp! Magazine and was an active board member for several institutions, including the Detroit Police Cadets, the American Red Cross, and the Detroit Athletic Club.
His dedication to his community extended beyond organizational leadership. For the last 40 years, he resided in Grosse Pointe Shores before relocating to Bloomfield Township. Deeb was also a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and Reserves, showcasing his commitment to both his country and his community.
He is survived by his wife, Joanne, two children, and five grandchildren. Visitation is set to take place at A.H. Peters Funeral Home in Grosse Pointe Woods on September 7, 2025, followed by a private family funeral.
In 2021, Deeb authored a book titled “The Go-To Guy, the Life and Times of a Detroit Area Mover, Shaker and Peacemaker,” detailing his experiences and contributions to the community. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources honored his legacy by naming a street on Belle Isle after him, known as Edward Deeb Ave.
Throughout his life, Deeb was deeply engaged in local initiatives, serving as a board member for various schools and community organizations in Grosse Pointe. His impact on the region remains indelible, and his legacy as a community leader will be remembered by many for years to come.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Remembering Edward Deeb: A Legacy of Service in Detroit
Michigan Community Mourns the Loss of Three Notable Residents
Detroit Mourns the Loss of Edward Deeb, Community Advocate
Edward Deeb, Influential Detroit Leader, Passes Away
Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Edward Deeb
- Wikipedia: Community Leader
- Legacy.com: Randall Leach
- Google Search: Edward Deeb
- Dignity Memorial: Mary Thomas
- Google Scholar: Edward Deeb
- Dignity Memorial: Paul Hunt
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Development
- Legacy.com: William Choice Jr.
- Google News: Edward Deeb
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.
