John O. Dempsey, 94, of Avon, Illinois, passed away Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at Seminary Manor in Galesburg. He was born October 28, 1931, in Galesburg, the son of J. Owen and Adlei S (Anderson) Dempsey. He had lived on the family farm since 1940 and was educated in the Pleasant Ridge one room schoolhouse.
Those left to cherish his memory are a brother, Barry J (Pauline) Dempsey, sister; Sara E. Dempsey; nieces, Deborah (Steven) Hass and Karen (Matt) Hall; nephews, Scott (Melissa) Dempsey and Craig (Kristen) Dempsey; two great-nieces and three great-nephews.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Bruce R. Dempsey LTC Ret US Army; a sister-in-law, Margaret Laree Dempsey and his parents.
John loved life on the family farm, where he enjoyed his garden, family gatherings and visiting his many neighbors over the years. He cared about animals and had no greater pleasure than spending time with all the beloved Brittany Spaniels he trained and raised. Travel was another joy, and if it involved a long train ride, he couldn’t be happier. As one relative put it, “there is a lifetime of memories with your dear sweet John. His spirit was so large, and always happy.”
Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, February 5, 2026, at the Knoxville Cemetery, Knoxville, Illinois. Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or the Avon Federated Church with funds designated for the Avon Food Pantry. Memorials may be left in the care of the funeral home. Moore Memorial Home, Avon, is handling the arrangements. For more information or to leave an online condolence, please visit our website at www.moorememorial.com
