DALLAS — The dynamic duo, Willie Mae Coleman and Bobbie Dean, is down to one.
“We live our days in numbers,” said 89-year-old Willie Mae Coleman, a South Dallas resident.
She first introduced WFAA to her childhood friend, Dean, in April. Dean’s home was in desperate need of repairs after storms damaged the roof.
“I find myself sometimes not breathing due to some of the mold and stuff inside,” said Dean.
After WFAA’s story, the City of Dallas began looking into her home situation. Local investors and volunteers built her a new roof for free. “It has been such a blessing to have somebody to care,” said Dean.
Since our updated story on Tuesday, Dean died. “I’m so sad because maybe if we could have gotten that carpet up out of that house sooner, she would’ve still been there, still living. There’s always a wonder there, but I know God knows best,” said Ms. Coleman.
While Dean’s cause of death is not yet known, it brings attention to housing repair needs for seniors.
“Our city is too large, too much money here to do our seniors like this. We are left out,” said Coleman.
Dallas Councilmember Carolyn King Arnold does not represent Dean’s district, but she said her office receives calls to help seniors as well.
“The aging process is going on not only with the housing stock but with aging individuals’ residents,” said King Arnold.
She said the funds to assist with home repairs depends on the budget.
“It is a competitive process in the sense that it is an application process. There are limited funds. There’s a deadline,” said King Arnold.
She said they also must find the right contractors which can take time.
“You have to have someone who understands the infrastructure of that housing stock when it was created,” said King Arnold. “We’re always going to work with staff to make sure we’re able to address the need. Sometimes, it’s a slow process. Sometimes, it’s a faster process.”
There are times when the city is able to help with home repairs.
“The joy that comes with that one repair is amazing,” said King Arnold.
That is the joy Dean showed before her death.
“I find myself praying and crying,” said Dean during an interview on Tuesday.
Although she is no longer here, Coleman still holds onto her memory.
“We had so much fun together when we were young and having children," said Coleman. "I miss that."
For more information on resources for seniors, click here.