Shawn Joshua Dempsey

Shawn Joshua Dempsey obituary, Kansas City, MO

Shawn Joshua Dempsey

Shawn Dempsey Obituary

Visit the Golden Gate Funeral & Cremation Services, LLC website to view the full obituary.

In Loving Memory of Shawn Joshua Dempsey 03/26/1985 – 05/14/2025

With hearts full of sorrow and memories full of laughter, we share the passing of Shawn, who left us far too soon at the age of forty. A beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, Shawn lit up every room he entered—usually with a joke, a mischievous grin, and a laugh that made it impossible not to smile along with him.

Born in Chula Vista, California, Shawn had a heart as big as his laugh and a spirit that could never be tamed. Whether he was teasing his siblings, spoiling his nieces and nephews, or pulling one of his signature pranks, he brought a lightness to life that we will miss every single day.

He had a knack for finding humor in just about anything—sometimes when he really shouldn't have—and a smile so contagious it should’ve come with a warning label. He loved fiercely, laughed loudly, and lived without hesitation.

Though his time with us was heartbreakingly short, Shawn made an unforgettable impact. His memory will live on in the stories we’ll keep telling, the jokes we’ll keep repeating, and the love he gave so freely to everyone lucky enough to know him.

He is survived by his Mother Eileen Dempsey, sister Victoria Valdez, his nephew Isaiah Valdez and his niece Issabella Valdez, along with many other friends and family who adored him.

A celebration of Shawn’s life will be held on Saturday May 31st at Nour’s in downtown Kansas City. Address for celebration of life is 3855 Warwick Blvd, Kansas City, Mo 64111. Open house celebration of life is from 1pm-4pm. Everyone who called Shawn a friend is welcome to come share a favorite story or memory.

Rest easy, Shawn. You may be gone too soon, but you’ll never be forgotten.

View All Photos

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Golden Gate Funeral & Cremation Services, LLC

2800 East 18th Street, Kansas City, MO 64127

Make a Donation
in Shawn Dempsey's name

How to support Shawn's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Shawn Dempsey's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more