Mary Beth Dempsey

Mary Beth "Beth" Dempsey, 73, of Oldtown, Maryland, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her family and loved ones, on November 7, 2025. She was born on January 3, 1952, in Frederick, Maryland, and had lived in Oldtown since 1978, where she built her life, her family, and her home filled with love.
Beth earned her Bachelor's degree in Education from Concord University in West Virginia. She began her career as a school teacher before returning to school to continue serving others in a new way. She earned her Nursing degree from Allegany College of Maryland and dedicated herself to caring for others from the 1990s onward. Her compassion, steadiness, and genuine kindness touched countless lives.
Beth loved the simple joys of life. In 2019, she became a goat farmer, caring for more than 15 goats, along with her chickens and cows. She spent her days outdoors among her animals, her beloved cat, and her loyal goat dog, Jughead, who stayed by her side always. Her home and her farm were her peace, and she shared that peace freely with the people she loved.
Beth was preceded in death by her husband, Chris Dempsey; her mother, Dorthy Royer; her father, John Royer; her brother, John Royer Jr.; her brother-in-law, Vernon Norris; her niece, Melissa Bowling; her nephews, John Royer III and Aaron Royer; and her grandson, Michael Patrick Dempsey; along with many great-aunts, cousins, and family members who welcomed her home.
She is survived by her sons Michael Dempsey; William Dempsey and his spouse Kim Dempsey, along with their children Jack, Mark, and Matthew; and Matthew Dempsey and his spouse Maria Dempsey, and their son Marshall Dempsey.
Beth is also survived by her siblings Diane Norris; Robert Royer and spouse Diane Royer; and Debbie Bowling and spouse Tim Bowling.
She is further survived by her nieces Nicole Ringer, Jessica Callaham, Heather Royer, and Janine Royer; and her nephews Tillman Bowling, Nathan Royer, and Jason Royer; as well as many cousins, extended family members, and dear friends whom she loved deeply.
Beth will be remembered as strong, warm, protective, and deeply loving. She lived with purpose and honesty, found joy in caring for others - both people and animals - and created a home where everyone felt welcome. Her faith in God was steady and genuine - not just spoken, but lived in the way she treated others. That faith remained with her throughout her life and brought her peace as she passed from this world, surrounded by those who loved her.
The Adams Family Funeral Home, P.A. is assisting the family.