Billy Deans, a long-time resident of the Florida Keys, has been living in the area since December 1968. He moved to the region when he was in the ninth grade. Deans has always been drawn to the water, a fascination that began when he first crossed the Seven Mile Bridge and was captivated by the clarity of the water. He initially lived on Stock Island from 1968 to 1980, after which he moved to Sugarloaf, where he has resided since. Deans is a University of Florida graduate with a degree in Chemistry. He has owned a dive shop for five years and has worked there for fifteen years, starting in 1978. His water experience is extensive, with significant exposure between Coleman and Tail End Buoy from the early to late 1970s, and later from Sand Key to Pelican Shoals. Deans started diving in Weeksboro in 1980 and has observed significant changes in the wreck over his lifetime.

Scope and Content Note
The interview with Billy Deans provides a detailed account of his life and experiences in the Florida Keys, focusing on his relationship with the water and his observations of the environment over the years. Deans discusses his move to the Keys in 1968, his initial fascination with the water, and his subsequent life and work in the area. He shares his experiences of diving in different areas, including between Coleman and Tail End Buoy, Sand Key to Pelican Shoals, and Weeksboro. Deans also talks about his dive shop, which he has owned for five years and worked at for fifteen years. He provides insights into the changes he has observed in the water clarity and the environment, particularly in relation to the wrecks he has dived. The interview also includes a discussion about Deans' educational background, including his degree in Chemistry from the University of Florida. The interview serves as a valuable resource for understanding the personal experiences and observations of a long-term resident and diver in the Florida Keys.