Jim Dempsey Memorial
James Peter Dempsey
Born in Brooklyn, New York on Jan. 11, 1948
Departed on May 7, 2004 and resided in Laredo, TX.
Do Not Grieve for James P. Dempsey.
Rather–rejoice in his memory and the many lives that he has touched. Dempsey was a loving father, an adored lover, a decorated hero and much more. Not a soul alive who had the privilege of meeting him was indifferent to him. So, his family asks that you take those memories of him and learn the lessons he had to offer. Above all, live every day to the fullest and take nothing for granted.
James Dempsey’s lists of accomplishments are too long to list. He was a soldier, loyal to his country in every way, decorated with three Purple Hearts, a Silver Star for Bravery and so many more. He was founder of Halo Flight, ever intent on saving and enriching lives. He was an active Mason and enjoyed Civil War re-enactments- an active member of the 69th Division of the Irish Brigade as well as the 6th Texas Division. He was a father – not only to this writer but to every child that he met, teaching always to be true to yourself, and at the same time not to take yourself so seriously – for when it comes down to it, who else can you truly laugh at? He survives in all of our hearts and leaves behind his daughter, Rachyll Dempsey, Psy. D., his partner, Hillary McAllister, his siblings, many nieces and nephews and thousands of friends. We wish to extend an invitation to everyone who would like to celebrate his life and memory.”
Jim Dempsey Memorial Archive
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My condolences, thoughts and prayers to the Dempsey family. I remember Jimmy as a big brother to the neighborhood where we grew up. He was a wonderful man. We will all miss him.
To the family of Jim Dempsey... Although no words of sympathy can ease the loss you bear, may you find some comfort in the thought that others care... You will all remain in my thoughts and prayers..
My condolences to the Dempsey family. Jimmy was a great guy.
Jim always had a positive outlook in life. I remember him coming in to the office, full of energy and a big grin, which one could barely see under that mustache. He was always ready to give a helping hand to friend or stranger. He will be missed.
My thoughts, prayers and condolences go out to Dempsey family and all who were close to Jim. Jimmy (as we knew him) was one of the older kids in the neighborhood where we grew up and always seemed to watch out for all of us. He always had a smile, a laugh and a kind word for everyone. When he was in Viet Nam, we all kept our fingers crossed and said prayers that he would be ok. Looks like James Dempsey the man was just as special as Jimmy Dempsey the kid.
His memory will always be alive in the hearts and minds of all who knew and loved him. He will never be forgotten.
i just got word that jim had passed words canot express how this loss effects me i knew him all my life all though we have not seen each other for many years he was one of the reasons i joined the marine corp him and john wayne that is one time when he was back from nam after being wounded i asked him why he was going back and he said as long as my brothers need me i will go back how many people do you know or will ever know would actually live what they say . i ran out of room god bless you jim and your family ill miss you
My deepest sympathy to Jim's family and friends. Heartfelt prayers and love go out to you all. I picture him always with a smile.
Jim, thank you for being a friend and for being there when needed. I'll miss you my friend, but I'm sure we will meet again.
Farewell old soldier and good friend. I will miss you greately and I look forward to meeting you again in the next life.
sorry for your loss, i know jimmy will be missed.
Jack's family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sorrow.
Dan & Kathy
Jim was truly a humble, but very great man.
Mike Horgan
His story telling, his humor, his pipe smoking and his comradery will be missed around the campfires.
2nd Sgt., Co K, 6th Texas
Doc' never hesitated to repeatedly put his life on the line to to help the wounded. He touched many lives. I am proud that I had the chance to serve with him and to call him 'Brother-in-Arms.' Loyalty & Courage! Dave Bryson, Loyal Prince Six-India, B Co, 2 Bn. 5th Cav Rgt, 1st Cav Div 1966-1967
On behalf of co. K, 6th Texas Infantry (reeanactors),
We have lost a friend and brother in Jim Dempsey's passing.
Jim 'JimBo':
You have inspired me to set my goals and have given me your opinion and guidance in achieving them. Discussions with you in my office always seemed to get me back on track towards my future. I will miss your thoughts and guidance for many years to come. I do know however that you are in a better place.
The City of Laredo has lost a Great Leader and the Heavens have recieved you.
Jim,
I can easily say you WILL be missed by your Law Enforcement/9-1-1 Emergency Communications Family. You were a powerful voice for all those that needed one and/or were too afraid to voice their concerns. You always wanted the best of things for your 9-1-1 Staff at the Laredo Police Department as well as the great and wonderful citizens of Laredo, Texas. I had the privilege of meeting you on a professional level, which evolved into a friendship as we lunched together at the Texas APCO Spring conference a mere month and half ago. I will remember you as a strong leader and only hope that one day I will be as strong as you. Take care my friend.....until we meet again! Hillary it was a pleasure to meet you and I am sorry for your loss. Jim always talked great things about his family, so as they wish I will rejoice in his memory and it was a pleasure meeting him.
On behalf of the Texas APCO Chapter, we extend our condolences to all of Jim's family and friends. He will be greatly missed in our Public Safety Communications Family as well.
I do not know where to begin....
I waited to long, I owe Jim Dempsey, more than I can ever explain and more than I could ever repay...
In addition to all the other things he did for all of us, I owe him my life, not for his usual skills as
our medic, but for a moment in time, when he did for me, the the right thing, at exactly the right time.
December 21st, 1966 on an LZ about 4-5 kilometers north of the firebase, Oasis, the 17 members of first platoon landed. On line at, the far left, I found a spider-hole and an NVA with an AK47.
My weapon jammed, his didn't- for 75-80 rounds- while I lay tangled six feet away. After the day ended, and the NVA dead, I obsessed on that AK. After repeated attempts on my part to retrieve it from the platoon CP, Jim grabbed me, threw me to the ground and strangled me. I finally tapped him on the am and said, 'Thanks... I'm ok now'.... Are you sure?'... ' Me-'Yeah, I'm ok'. He let me up and we talked for some time...
In thirty-seven and a half years, not a week has passed, without thinking of Jim and the kindness he did for me that day. It brought me to my senses in many more ways than I can say. I will never be able to express the abiding sadness I feel at his passing. I will carry him in my heart forever.
Thank You Jim, for everything.
Medic! and Dempsey would be off like a shot,answering the call,Dempsey as much infantryman as medic,I showed him how to fire my 81mm mortar & he never forgot it,singing'Danny Boy'for us so wonderful the brass in the rear heard it and flew him back for ST.Pats Day.Our call sign in Nam 'Loyal Prince' Jim truly was a loyal prince of America and our Dreamcatchers are working overtime as we're flooded w/memories,I was sure looking forward to the 2005 reunion at Ft.Hood & and giving ya a big hug! Loyalty& Courage, B Co. 2/5th Cav,1st Cav Div Vietnam 1966-67,Loyal Prince 4/6 India,Swig, Out!
