Claudie L. Dempsey

Claudie Leaman Dempsey, 90, of Benton, Arkansas, went to be with the Lord on November 1, 2026. He was born on November 25, 1935, in Mark Tree, Arkansas, to Samuel Leaman “SL” and Birdie Dempsey.

Claudie was a hardworking man who took great pride in providing for his family. Throughout his life, he wore many hats, including working in construction, but he was especially proud of his time as an underwater welder, a trade that allowed him to be part of building the Arkansas River Bridge. He had a deep love for the outdoors, where he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and tending to his garden, as he truly had a green thumb. A natural storyteller and teacher at heart, Claudie enjoyed sharing his knowledge, experiences, and stories with those around him, leaving a little of himself with everyone he met.

Above all, Claudie was a man of strong faith. He served as a deacon at First Assembly of God for seven years, and his relationship with the Lord was an important part of his life. He was also a man who stood by his word. He once made a promise at his mother's side near the end of her life that he would never drink again, and he kept that promise. That was the kind of man Claudie was.

One of the greatest blessings of his life was his beloved wife, Patsy Manell Dempsey. Together, they shared 70 years of marriage built on love, faith, and respect. Claudie loved Patsy dearly, and the life they built together testified to their devotion to one another. They both loved having family gathered around them, especially during the holidays, but really, any excuse to bring everyone together was a good one. Their home was a place where family and friends were always welcome, and there was always something cooking to share. One thing was certain: if you were around Claudie and Patsy, you were never going to leave hungry. Feeding the people they loved was simply one of the ways they showed how much they cared.

Claudie was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Patsy Manell Dempsey; his sons, Gary, Rocky, and Stanley Dempsey; granddaughter, Amanda Santoff; as well as daughter-in-law, Kathy Dempsey.

He is survived by sons, Rodger (Sharon) and William (Leona) Dempsey; grandchildren, Matt, Crystal, Ashley, Keith, Roxanne, and Samuel Dempsey; great-grandchildren, Lauren, Kris, Ruger, Elise, Aspen, Austin, Andin, Autumn, Cayden, and Shyane; great-great-grandchildren, Grayson, Jackson, and Warren; daughters-in-law, Suzy Dempsey, Patricia Johnson, and Denise Dempsey; along with many other family members and dear friends who loved him and will miss him dearly.

A memorial service honoring and celebrating Claudie's life will be held on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. at Tent Builders Church, 1214 Liberty, Benton, Arkansas.