Deans Family Genealogy & History

Mickey Deans, born Michael DeVinko Jr. (September 24, 1934 – July 11, 2003), was an American musician and entrepreneur, best recognized as the fifth husband of iconic actress and singer Judy Garland. He transitioned from being a jazz pianist and disco owner to managing the Manhattan discothèque Arthur. Deans' career involved being a musical performer at notable venues like Jilly's in New York City and managing various enterprises across Los Angeles, Reno, Miami Beach, and the Virgin Islands. His involvement with Garland included marriage in 1969, during her final years, and he authored a book about her titled "Weep No More, My Lady."

John Kelly "Dixie" Deans, born on 30 July 1946, is a retired Scottish footballer renowned for his prolific goal-scoring as a centre forward during the 1960s and 1970s. Deans made his mark playing for Motherwell and Celtic, where he achieved remarkable feats like scoring six goals in a single game and two hat-tricks in major cup finals. Despite missing a crucial penalty in the 1971–72 European Cup semi-final, he enjoyed success with Celtic, securing multiple league and cup titles. Deans also played internationally, earning two caps for Scotland in 1974. His career extended to Australia, where he became a hero for Adelaide City fans.

Robbie Deans, born Robert Maxwell Deans on September 4, 1959, is a distinguished New Zealand rugby union coach and former player, currently leading the Saitama Wild Knights in Japan. His illustrious coaching career includes managing the Australian national team from 2008 to 2013 and achieving unprecedented success with the Crusaders, winning multiple Super Rugby titles. As a player, Deans represented Canterbury and played for the All Blacks, securing 50 points in five tests. His legacy in rugby is marked by a record-breaking Ranfurly Shield reign and a successful tenure as a player and coach.

Julia Mary Deans, born on 27 August 1974, is a renowned New Zealand singer-songwriter, most famous as the lead singer of the rock band Fur Patrol. Known for their number-one single "Lydia," Fur Patrol released three albums, including Pet, Collider, and Local Kid. Deans also embarked on a successful solo career with her album Modern Fables, which was shortlisted for the Taite Music Prize. Additionally, she collaborated with top New Zealand musicians in The Adults, whose self-titled album gained a nomination for Album of the Year at the 2012 New Zealand Music Awards.

Julia Deans has an artistic lineage with her grandfather being the painter Austen Deans. Her family history traces back to her great-great-great-grandmother Jane Deans, adding depth to her rich heritage.