Judy Grace Dempsey

Judy Grace Dempsey, 81, of Chippewa Falls, passed away Saturday, July 26, 2025 surrounded by family at Dimensions Living in Eau Claire.

She was born on March 27, 1944 in Vancouver, Washington to Harold and Virginia (Haynes) Graham.

She graduated from Chippewa Falls Senior High School with the class of 1962, joining the United States Marine Corps directly out of high school. While in the service of our country, Judy met Francis T. Dempsey, Jr. who was also serving. They married and welcomed three children: Barbara, Patrick and Todd.

Throughout her life, Judy worked at Walmart and JCPenney. She particularly enjoyed Jazz, bopping along to artists like Sam Cooke and James Brown. Judy had a special place in her heart for all animals, but especially dogs. She loved many pets over the course of her life.

In her younger years, Judy loved bowling and earned herself several “200” game pins. She also enjoyed a pretty garden, but was fond of tulips and petunias which grew nicely for her. Judy could embroider an entire tablecloth; family cherished receiving these tablecloths as gifts over the years.

Judy was an accomplished traveler, having spent time visiting Germany, England, Belgium, Netherlands, France, Italy, Luxemburg and Poland. She also lived in many places over the years, to include Wisconsin, Minnesota, South Carolina, Virginia, Iowa, Texas, Florida, North Carolina, and even Iceland!

Judy is survived by her children, Barbara (Frank) Murnane, Patrick (Nancy) Dempsey, and Todd Dempsey; her grandchildren; Matthew Dempsey, and Sean (Leah) Murnane; her siblings, Sharon Couey-Brown, and Jerry (Becky) Graham; along with several nieces, nephews and other beloved family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Virginia Graham; and two siblings, Richard Graham, and Joyce Ermatinger.

A Memorial Service for Judy will be held on Monday, August 4th at Pederson-Volker Funeral Chapel at 11:00 a.m. with Deacon Dan Rider officiating. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Judy will be laid to rest at Forest Hill Cemetery immediately following.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to Chippewa County Humane Association, Bob’s House for Dogs, Mack’s Heart Haven, or any Animal Shelter of your choice.