Deanna (Dee) Frick Jones Wheeler passed away on January 4, 2026, following a long and courageous battle with multiple health challenges that she faced with grit, strength, and determination for many years.

Born on January 21, 1943, in Hudson, New York, Deanna was the eldest child of Albert George Frick and Dorothy Ann (Gregory) Frick.

During the late 1970s and 1980s, Deanna was a bartender and co-owner—alongside her first husband, John Jones Jr.—of The Inn Between in Chatham, NY, which they operated for 13 years. A true local staple, The Inn Between was much like the bar depicted in the television show Cheers: a place where friendships were formed, stories were shared, and countless good times were enjoyed by family, friends, and regulars alike.

After selling the bar, Deanna went on to work for Columbia County Social Services in the Adult Services Department as an administrative assistant. She was known for her strong work ethic, sharp wit, clever mind, and straightforward honesty. Deanna said what she meant and meant what she said—no sugar-coating required.

Deanna loved her family and friends, her beloved beagle "daughter" Bella, gardening, bird watching, and ice cream. She leaves behind a legacy of laughter, resilience, honesty, and unforgettable moments shared with those lucky enough to know her.

She was predeceased by her parents; her sister, Patricia Ann Frick; her brother, Albert James "Jim" Frick; her first husband, John Jones Jr.; her cherished beagle "daughter" Bella; her second husband, Thomas Wheeler; and her nephew, Robert Lee Comellas.

Deanna is survived by her sister, Linda (Frick) Comellas; her brother, Richard Alan (Debbie) Frick; her daughter, Dawn Williams (boyfriend Joe Romer); and her grandson, Ronald "RJ" Craft. She is also survived by her nieces, Amanda Frick and Megan Frick; nephews Richard (Shannon) Frick, Jeremy Frick, and Christopher Comellas; along with several cousins, great-nieces, and great-nephews from the Frick family, and many additional nieces and nephews (far too many to name here) from the Jones family.

Deanna's family offers their deepest and most heartfelt thanks to dear friends Mary Ann Manley, Joe and Kaleigh Cavanaugh, and home health aides Nicole (Nikki) Stubbs and Fatima Blue. During Deanna's final months, their compassion, patience, and genuine kindness brought her comfort, dignity, and moments of peace, making an immeasurable difference in Deanna's days and in the hearts of those who love her.

Though our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in knowing that Deanna is no longer in pain and has been reunited with those who went before her. Her lessons, memories, and fierce honesty will remain with us always.

A viewing will be held on Monday, January 12, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Raymond E. Bond Funeral Home, 1015 Kinderhook Street, Valatie, NY 12184. A funeral service will immediately follow at 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home, followed by a procession to Ghent Union Cemetery, County Route 9, Ghent, NY 12075. After the burial, family and friends are invited to gather for a celebration of Deanna's life at the Ghent VFW, 2237 NY-66, Ghent, NY 12075.

In place of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Deanna's honor to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society: https://mohawkhumane.org

Rest in peace, Deanna. Your struggles are over, and your strength will not be forgotten.