John M.

Dempsey

John “Jack” Dempsey, age 74, of Stratford, beloved husband of Laurie Dempsey, passed away peacefully on September 26, 2026, in his home. 

John was born in Bridgeport on September 15, 1952, to the late John and Eleanor (O’Connell) Dempsey and was a lifelong Stratford resident. He was a graduate of Bullard Havens Technical High School, the owner of J.M. Dempsey Mechanical, and a member of Plumbers Union Local 777.J

ohn devoted many years of service to the Town of Stratford. He served eight years on the Stratford Town Council, four years on the Zoning Commission, eight years on the Zoning Board of Appeals, including six years as chairman, and four years as a constable. He was also a member of the Stratford Republican Town Committee for 40 years.In 2012, John was awarded the Karl Sholanich “Republican of the Year” Award after becoming the first Republican since 1945 to win three consecutive terms as Stratford’s 5th District Councilman. He was also one of only 16 people to have contributed more than 20 years to elected service in the Town of Stratford.

John was most proud of the 38 years he spent as a father to his children, J.J., Shannon, and James. He was a dedicated father who called every day with a new joke, remembered every detail, no matter how small, and loved to spend time watching a good movie—as long as that movie was Goodfellas. John remained a constant presence in their lives until his final days and was eagerly awaiting the arrival of his first grandchild in November. His children will miss him dearly.

John is survived by his beloved wife of 41 years, Laurie; his devoted children, John J. Dempsey and his wife Lindsay of Stratford, Shannon Dempsey and her husband Sean Haywood of Georgia, and James Dempsey and his wife Lia of Stratford; his mother-in-law, Mary Zrelak; his nieces, Erin and Katie Dempsey; his nephews, Sean and Martin Dempsey; and many beloved brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Dawn, Darren, DeeDee Zrelak and Debra and Phil Syren. In addition to his parents, John was also predeceased by his brothers, Martin and Brian Dempsey; his nephew, Ryan; and his father-in-law, Albert Zrelak. 

John will be remembered for his great sense of humor. He was always quick with a joke and a friend to all. 

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 1, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Adzima Funeral Home, 50 Paradise Green Place, Stratford, with a prayer service at 6:45 p.m.