Obituary of Elizabeth T. Dempsey

Dempsey Elizabeth nee “Groth” Elizabeth “Betty” died suddenly on Saturday, November 28, 2020 one day after her 85th birthday. She was the beloved wife of John “Jack” Dempsey for 60 years till his passing in 2018 and the devoted daughter of William H. Groth and Elizabeth (McBride) Groth who preceded her in death. Loving mother of Maureen Braun (Thomas), Michael Dempsey, Esq. (Pamela), Regina Vanyo (Edward) and Denise Koruba (Edward). Devoted sister to Dorothy Groth Crist and the late William H. Groth, Jr. Cherished “Nanny” to 8 grandchildren – Thomas Braun, Jr. (Jenn), Cristin McMichael (Ryan), Stephen Braun (Caitlin), Erin Heuwetter (Dave), Kimberly O’Sullivan (Greg), Shannon Dempsey, Stephen Vanyo and Kerry Elizabeth Vanyo. Proud “Gigi” to 8 great- granddaughters. Adoring Aunt to numerous nieces and nephews of the Groth and Dempsey families. Betty was a graduate of Little Flower High School Class of 1953 where she excelled in academics and won a Philadelphia city wide Latin competition as a freshman. Betty was also a talented pianist and an outstanding singer in various choral groups. She spent her professional career as an Executive Assistant in hospital administration. Betty possessed a strong Catholic faith and had great affection for her church, St. Christopher’s along with pastor Monsignor Garvin and her friends from the 50+ Club. She was especially thankful for the wonderful residents at Gloria Dei Farms where she met many new friends the past two years. Our Mother will always be remembered for her lifelong love of the beach and ocean which she enjoyed with her family and friends, with a particular fondness for Cape May, NJ, Ft. Lauderdale and St. Pete Beach, FL. The seashore was our Mother’s heaven on earth. Last month in Florida while overlooking the ocean at sunset, she mentioned that if the ocean could be so superbly beautiful, just imagine what heaven will be like. We now see her standing by the seashore, amidst eternal sunshine and surrounded by peace and love that is deeper than the ocean. A Family viewing will be held on Dec. 9th 9:30 AM at St. Christopher Church 13301 Proctor Rd. Phila., PA 19116. Funeral Mass 11:00 AM. Interment Washington Crossing National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations to St. Christopher Church at the address listed above would be appreciated by her family. Live feed will start at 10:40 am. Click on this link https://www.facebook.com/1548899102043410/posts/2778137489119559/?d=n