Jack Dempsey

Jack D. Dempsey NORFOLK - Retired U.S. Air Force Col. Jack D. Dempsey, 94, died June 18, 2009. He was born Nov. 25, 1914, in Houston, Texas to the late John A. Dempsey and Bessie B. Dempsey. He is survived and lovingly remembered by his wife of 66 years, Ann B. Dempsey and his son, Jack D. Dempsey Jr. He graduated from Webster High School in Pearland, Texas, (where he later taught briefly), received a B.A. degree from the University of Houston and later a master's degree from George Washington University. Col. Dempsey served more than 25 years in the United States Air Force. As a command pilot, he flew a wide variety of aircraft ranging from the single engine bi-plane in training as a Army Air Corps cadet to B-17s in World War II over Europe and North Africa and finally B-52s out of Castle and Travis Air Force bases in California. His many awards and medals include the Joint Services Commendation Medal, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal with four oak leaf clusters, a Presidential Unit Citation Ribbon and various campaign medals. After retiring from the U.S. Air Force, he taught at Lake Taylor High School in Norfolk when it first opened and retired again after 10 years. He loved reading and was an avid golfer with many of his retired friends at Sewells Point Golf Course in Norfolk. Col. Dempsey will be sent to his home town in Pearland, Texas, for a graveside service with military honors at 10 a.m. Tuesday, June 23, at Southpark Funeral Home and Cemetery in Pearland. Local arrangements are under the direction of Hollomon-Brown Funeral Home, Tidewater Drive Chapel. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.hollomon-brown.com.