Gerald Ray was born December 29, 1951, in Houston, Texas, to Raymond Lee and Minnie Selma Dempsey. He attended Good Hope Baptist Church. Gerald Ray took great pleasure in being able to restore old vehicles. Another hobby was riding motorcycles; he actually accomplished the feat of riding a motorcycle in all 49 states and joked that he “could not figure out how to ride his bike to Hawaii”. He loved his family dearly, but the love of his life was his four grandchildren. He was faithful to attend every sporting event in which they participated.
Gerald Ray is survived by his wife of 47 years, Vicky Kemp Dempsey; and his sons, Jarrod Dempsey and wife, Christa; and Justin Dempsey and wife, Paula, all of Louisville. One of his greatest joys was being “Granddaddy” to his grandchildren: Dakota Dempsey; Madison Dempsey; Nick Dempsey; and Noah Dempsey. He also leaves behind his mother, Minnie Selma Dempsey; two sisters Judy Stovall and Gail Dempsey; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and other family members. He was preceded in death by his father; his brother, Chester Dempsey; and his sister, Shirley Holmes.
Memorial contributions in honor of Gerald Ray may be given to Winston Academy Booster Club, P. O. Box 545, Louisville, MS 39339.
Services are under the direction of Nowell-Massey Funeral Home, 724 North Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.nowellmasseyfuneralhome.com.
