Gisela Irene Dempsey, 69, Worked with the House of Praise's Youth
Gisela Irene Dempsey “Gizzy,” who was born on November 24, 1953 in Lorain, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, March 27, 2023 at the age of 69.
Despite some medical challenges, she had a servant’s heart! She followed her calling and devoted many years to working with the House of Praise’s Youth. She had a special anointing to mentor these young adults, who referred to her as “Mama Gizzy”! They brought her so much joy and quickly became her Spiritual Children!
Those who encountered or got to know Gizzy undoubtedly experienced the Love of God firsthand. She was a true disciple of the Lord, praying with and for anyone who needed it, whether she knew them or not! She was bold and fearless! Her passion to inspire and teach others about having a personal relationship with Jesus was amazing! She will be sorely missed by her family, friends, and church “Kids”!
She recently completed training to become a Hospice Volunteer for Mercy Hospital. In addition, she was training to become a source of support to families with loved ones battling Dementia. These ministries were near and dear to her heart, as she personally experienced both with her loving husband, Johnny Dempsey, who preceded her in death four years ago. They were married on May 2, 1981. Together they enjoyed going to classic car shows and Flea Markets. Her other interests included reading the Word of God, listening to Christian Worship Music, photography, baking, dancing, doing crafts and cross stitching. She loved Nature and especially enjoyed watching sunsets and taking in the beauty of the Fall foliage! Gizzy also loved watching and rooting for her home sports teams - the Cleveland Cavaliers, The Browns and the Guardians!
She is survived by her brother, Joe Irene of North Royalton, her sisters Angela (Louie) Matos of Lorain, Mary (Pat) White of Morrisdale, Pennsylvania, and Carmen (Bruce) Houseman of Lorain, seven nieces and nephews and many cousins.
Gizzy is preceded in death by her husband of 41 years, John R. Dempsey, her parents, Victor and Aida Irene and her sister-in-law, Judy Swiat Irene.
Her family will receive friends on Sunday, April 2 from 6:00 to 7:00 PM at House of Praise International Church, 4321 Elyria Avenue, Lorain, Ohio 44055. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at 7:00 PM. Pastor Gilbert Silva and Pastor Mark Hebebrand will officiate.
Monetary Donations can be made directly to the House of Praise.
Arrangements are by Richard J. Reidy Funeral Home, 1783 East 31st Street, South Lorain. For expressions of sympathy and further information please see, Reidyfuneral.com.