Jake W. "Jakie" Dempsey Jr.

Jake W. “Jakie” Dempsey Jr., age 66, passed away on May 30, 2025.

Born on January 29, 1959, Jakie was the son of the late Jake W. Dempsey and Shirley Kelly Dempsey.

Jakie and his siblings were raised on Lake Marion, where he spent most of his life enjoying the outdoors and the simple joys of lake living. He had a lifelong love of fishing, water skiing, and barefooting in the summer with his brothers, who all thought they were pros. Close friends from Charleston, Roger Burris and Alton Wiggins, often joined them—bonds formed on the water that have lasted a lifetime.

Jakie was a small but mighty man, known for his big heart and quiet strength. He had a passion for cooking, especially grilling and preparing hearty country meals. A true jack of all trades—though it was often joked he was “a master of none”—Jakie enjoyed tinkering and fixing about anything. He was also a gifted artist, with many sketches that captured his creative spirit over the years.

Music was another one of Jakie’s talents. He loved playing the guitar and sharing a tune when the moment felt right. An avid golfer, he was rarely in a hurry for anything—unless it was a tee time.

Jakie had a wide circle of friends he kept in touch with, along with many cousins and extended family who loved him dearly. He will be remembered for his easygoing nature, his talent, his humor, and the deep and lasting friendships he nurtured throughout his life.

Jakie is survived by his brothers Rodney J. Dempsey (Faye) and Troy K. Dempsey (Susan); sisters Wendy D. Young (Buzzy) and Dawn D. Bilton (Michael); and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, June 21, 2025 at 3PM, 173 Broughton Lane, Eutawville, SC.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared online at avingerfh.com.