George Lewis Dempsey, Sr.

George Lewis Dempsey, Sr. was born on August 25, 1941, in Jacksonville, Georgia, to the late Charlie Frederick Dempsey and Estella Hick Dempsey. He was the second oldest of five children and demonstrated a caring and nurturing spirit from an early age. George took great pride in helping care for his younger siblings and cherished the special bond he shared with his family. Whether teaching his sister how to braid her hair or offering guidance and support, he was a devoted brother whose love for family remained a defining characteristic throughout his life. 

He was also a devoted husband who shared more than 50 wonderful years of marriage with the love of his life, Phillistine Thomas Dempsey. To this beautiful union four children were born. Their enduring union was a testament to their faith, commitment, and unwavering love for one another. George was a faithful servant of God, worshipping for many years at Greaterville Baptist Church before becoming a dedicated member of Thomaston Road Church of Christ, where he remained a committed member for more than forty years. A lifelong learner and proud graduate of Florida A&M University, George was an enthusiastic supporter of the FAMU Rattlers. Following his college years, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy. During his twelve years of military service, he completed two tours of duty in Vietnam and served honorably with distinction. His dedication and sacrifice earned him numerous commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Vietnam Campaign Medal. While serving in the Navy, George attended Music Class “A” School, where he further developed his love for music and his favorite instrument, the trumpet. His final military assignment was in Key West, Florida, before returning home to Georgia after receiving an honorable discharge. George remained proud of his military service and was honored to be a lifetime member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV).

George’s accomplishments extended far beyond his military career. He built an exceptional professional legacy through hard work, determination, and excellence. He faithfully served the Keebler Company for 32 years, where he was respected by colleagues and entrusted with leadership roles on the Shop Board, Credit Union Board, and as Shop Steward. He later retired from Central Georgia Technical College after 29 years of service as an Electrical Supervisor. Among his many achievements, George was especially proud of being one of the first African Americans to earn a master’s degree in electrical studies, paving the way for others who followed. Despite his many professional and personal accomplishments, his greatest source of pride was his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose wisdom, kindness, and steadfast support enriched the lives of those around him. George will be remembered as a faithful Christian, a proud veteran, a dedicated professional, and a family man whose legacy of love, service, and perseverance will continue to inspire generations to come.

George leaves to cherish his precious memories to his loving wife, Phillistine Thomas Dempsey; four children, George Jr., Phillip, Sandra (Markeith) Saddler and a host of grandchildren, Lewis Dempsey, Youland Dempsey, Kyler Clayton, DeAndre, Jonathan, Shard’e’ Jones, Shondra Jones; great grandchildren, Michah, Nadiyah, Rondale, Renzell, Jacob, Isaiah and Kiersten; one deceased daughter, Jacob Isaiah, Kirsten; sister, Faye Dix Warren; two special cousins, Sharon Wimbush and Mary Johnson ( he loved them as a sisters); special cousin, Ervin Hicks; close friend, Melvin McKinney, Jr. and a host of other relatives and friends.

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