David Dean Sexton

Trucking Industry Executive

Dean Sexton was born February 28, 1956 at Lockwood, MO to Bob and Wanda Sexton and has lived in Carthage 50 years. “Deano” as he is known, attended Carthage schools, graduating from Carthage High School, where he was active in sports and Student Council. He and his wife Michele are the parents of two children, Matthew and Deandra.

   Dean started in the transportation industry as a company driver, then became an owner/operator, and finally transitioned to Fleet Owner. He formed D & D Sexton, Inc., specializing in refrigerated trucking in 1981, and employs over 200 employees. He has been a true leader in the industry, always on the cutting edge of innovation. As a result, his company has prospered and he has received many awards for its accomplishments and his leadership. In 2010 he was recognized by Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon for his “outstanding leadership and ongoing investment in Missouri’s economy during these challenging times”.

   In the transportation industry, Dean has been an active member of the Truckload Carriers Association over 20 years, serving on its Board of Directors. He has facilitated many committee round-tables and other activities. He has been active in the Missouri Motor Carriers Association many years, serving on its Board of Directors, the Executive Committee, and as Chairman of the Board. After the Joplin tornado, hurricane Katrina and many other disasters, he has readily loaned vehicles to assist with relief.

   Dean has long promoted safety and energy efficiency in his company and served on the executive committee that created the Decisive Driving Center at Crowder College in Neosho. Among the awards he or his company have received are the Fred G. Campbell Outstanding Service Award from the Missouri Trucking Association, Thermo King Energy Efficiency Leader Award, Schreiber Foods Transportation Supplier of the Year, and D & D Sexton has been named one of the “best run trucking companies in North America”. Dean currently serves as Executive Director of the American Trucking Association in Washington, DC.

   In Carthage, Dean has served on the Board of Directors and as an officer of the Chamber of Commerce, has served on the Fair Acres Family YMCA Board and coached many youth sports programs. He works with schools to educate area youth about the trucking industry and has operated a Job Shadow program, which allows youth to work along side selected employees. He attends Grace Episcopal Church and has been a member of Carthage Rotary Club for 20 years. His accomplishments make him a worthy member of the Hall of Carthage Heroes.