Cochran - Mr. James Wendell Dempsey, age 80, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Wednesday, March 25, 2020, after an extended illness. Waiting to greet him were his parents, the late John W. and Bertha Williams Dempsey and his eldest sister, the late Myrtice Dempsey Whigham. A private graveside service will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2020, at Bowers Cemetery with burial immediately following. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Wendell was born in Dodge County, GA and was a graduate of Dodge County High School Class of 1958. He was a civil service employee at Robins Air Force Base and retired in 1995 as an Electronics Mechanic after 35 years of service. He also served in the 202nd Air Command Air National Guard for nine years. Wendell was a man who enjoyed the simple things in life. He never desired material items or great wealth; his riches were stored in Heaven. He had a great respect and love for nature. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, working in the yards, tending to his martin gourds, and feeding and watching the beautiful birds that came to visit daily. He loved his family, and he loved the time spent with his precious grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He enjoyed helping people in any way possible; never expecting anything in return. It gave him great joy to be of service to others. Most of all, he enjoyed serving his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and was a faithful member of Empire Baptist Church, where he served as a Deacon, Chairman of the Deacons, and Treasurer among other roles.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Bertie Sue Pinnell Dempsey; his daughters Selina (Eric) Zieg of Kathleen, Cindy (Mike) West of Byron, son James Alex (Melanie) Dempsey of Cochran; brothers Curtis Dempsey, John L. (Betty) Dempsey, and David (Marolyn) Dempsey; sisters Betty (Billy)Braswell, Fay Rutherford, and Judy (Orlando) Cabrera; 11 grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and three step-great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend a very special thanks to the caring staff at Bryant Health & Rehabilitation Center and to Joyce Mickle and staff at Serenity Place Hospice.

Flowers are accepted or memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.