Plan for the Future
*Click here to livestream the Funeral Mass on Wednesday, Dec. 18th at 10:30am*
Jerry R. Dempsey passed away peacefully at home on December 13, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.
Jerry was born in Elizabeth, New Jersey, on May 15, 1941, the son of Wilfred L. Dempsey and Leoba B. Dempsey. Jerry is late of Summit and Sea Girt, New Jersey.
Jerry graduated from the Pingry in Hillside, New Jersey, Georgetown University and University of Pennsylvania Law School. After a clerkship with the Honorable Kenneth Hand, Superior Court of New Jersey, Jerry joined his father’s law firm, The Law Office of Wilfred L. Dempsey, in Summit, New Jersey. He was shortly thereafter joined by his brother-in-law, Bartholomew A. Sheehan, Jr., and a few years later by his brother, Robert W. Dempsey. The firm was renamed Dempsey, Dempsey & Sheehan and Jerry continued to practice law until his recent retirement early in 2024.
Jerry’s practice over the years was centered around real estate transactions, estate planning, and estate administration. His personal attention and professional excellence gave confidence and comfort to his clients with many of whom he formed close personal relations. His expertise and knowledge in the field of real estate led to investments and development in real estate that continue to exist as industry standards in Summit and Sea Girt, New Jersey.
Jerry was an avid fan of the game of tennis – both as a participant and a spectator. He played tennis regularly for many years with the same group and their friendship extended beyond the court. As a spectator, Jerry attended the U.S. Open for over 40 years and enjoyed attending matches at Wimbledon and in Florida.
Jerry is survived by his siblings Leoba B. (Dolly) Donahue (Floyd Donahue, M.D.), Mary K. Sheehan (Bartholomew Sheehan, Jr.), and Robert W. Dempsey. He is also survived by his loving niece, Mary Lee Trousdale, and his nephews, Bartholomew A. Sheehan, III, Jeremiah P. Sheehan, and Matthew W. Sheehan, as well as by many grandnieces and nephews, all of whom gave him great joy.
Jerry was a longtime member of the Spring Lake Bath and Tennis Club, the New York Athletic Club and Baltusrol Golf Club.
Jerry was a daily communicant of St. Teresa of Avila Church in Summit, New Jersey, and was extremely generous to his family and charities. He was particularity proud of his substantial contribution to Georgetown University for the restoration of the Copley Crypt and having the chapel dedicated to his beloved parents.
Jerry was a loyal and compassionate family member and friend, his graceful presence engaged everyone he met and he will be missed by all who knew him.
A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Teresa of Avila Church, 306 Morris Ave. in Summit, NJ on Wednesday, December 18th at 10:30am. Interment will follow at St. Teresa Cemetery, 136 Passaic Ave. in Summit. Visiting hours at Bradley, Brough & Dangler Funeral Home, 299 Morris Ave. in Summit will be held on Tuesday, December 17th from 4 to 8pm.
