His parents had 11 children, including Dewey. His seven brother's names were (in order of oldest to youngest): Henry Cleave, Cleveland Smith, Robert Clinton, James Plummer, William Melvin, L.J., and Danny. His three sister's names were (oldest to youngest): Lula, Linnie Esta, and Vadie. He was able to finish his high school education, unlike his parents. After graduating, he worked as a farmer with his father and as a road worker. That is what he did until he enlisted into the war.