Benny Thedford Dempsey was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Benny and Mary Dempsey on March 6, 1950.

He was a graduate of Cheltenham High School in Wyncote, PA on June 5, 1968. Benny earned a B.A. degree from FAMU in 1972.

Benny married Beverly Polite on July 19,1973 in New York. He went on to work as a PE teacher and a Mental Healthcare Counselor. A devoted jazz lover, he found joy in listening to music that spoke to his heart. He also cherished quiet moments in his garden, tending to his plants with patience and care. Known for his impeccable sense of style, Benny carried himself with grace and confidence wherever he went.

Benny attended Midtown Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses (Springfield) and went on to dedicate his life to Jehovah on July 5, 2025. He was known for spreading the good news by taking magazines to his doctor's appointments to share with other patients and medical staff.

Benny is preceded in death by his son, Sean Dempsey; wife, Beverly Dempsey; father, Benny J. Dempsey; mother, Margaret E. Dempsey.

Benny is survived by his daughters, Mekeda S. Dempsey and Selena M. Dempsey as well as a host of cousins, great family, friends, as well as spiritual brothers and sisters.

Mr. Dempsey's Memorial Service will be live streamed on the Alphonso West Mortuary, Inc. Facebook page on Friday, December 5, 2025 at 11AM. https://www.facebook.com/events/1343516850316023/