Jimmie Dempsey, proud veteran

James “Jimmie” Dempsey, 94, of Lewes, formerly of Dover, passed away peacefully Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2023, at Beebe Healthcare.

He was born July 5, 1929, in Dover, to the late Elias James Dempsey and the late Blanche Alma (McClain) Dempsey. Jimmie attended Dover High School and worked on the family farm. He served in the U.S. Army with the 196th Regimental Combat Team during the Korean War. 

In 1952, he married the love of his life, Rebecca Dempsey, and in December they celebrated 70 years of marriage.

After serving in the Army, he was an electrician for Tudor Electric and Carl King Heating and Air. After moving from Dover to Lewes in the 1970s, he worked as an electrician for Jimmy White and later worked at Storer Cable as a service technician. Before retiring he worked part time at Hazzard Auto Parts and Nuttle Lumber. 

He enjoyed rabbit hunting, fishing, trains, and antique tractors, and was a loyal NASCAR fan; Dale Earnhardt was his favorite driver. He was a member of the Cheswold Volunteer Fire Department and later a volunteer member of the Lewes Fire Department. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Rebecca Dempsey; son, Edward J. Dempsey; brother, Billy Dempsey; and sisters, Mable Forman and Frances Remley.

He is survived by daughter, Linda Reitzes and her husband Andy of Dover; son, Michael Dempsey and his wife Joni of Milton; granddaughter, Taylor Dempsey of Tampa, Fla.; sister, Maryjane Bell of Dover; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Services are private.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions in his name to Lewes Fire Department, 347 Savannah Road, Lewes, DE 19958; or Cheswold Volunteer Fire Company, 371 Main St., Cheswold, DE 19936.