Chad Joseph Dempsey

Chad Dempsey was a beacon of inspiration in the world of music education. Chad dedicated his life to nurturing the musical talents of countless students, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who had the privilege of knowing him. With a passion for both music and teaching, Chad instilled not only technical proficiency but also a deep appreciation for the beauty and power of music in his students and colleagues. He believed in the transformative power of music to enrich the lives he touched. As an educator, Chad was known for his unwavering dedication, positive energy, patience, and encouragement. He fostered an inclusive and supportive environment where students felt inspired to explore their creativity and express themselves through music.

Mr. Dempsey leaves behind a legacy that will continue to resonate through the melodies and harmonies of his students, who now carry forward his passion for music and education. Though he may no longer be with us in body, his spirit lives on through the music he helped to cultivate in the hearts and minds of generations to come. Chad’s passion for music led him to establish his own business of music consulting and drill designing, D’ZINE & Consulting, designing many marching band halftime shows across the country. During the pandemic, Chad created the “HEY, BAND!” Network, an invaluable platform for band directors to come together in support of band programs and their students.

Born in Maryville, Missouri, Chad was a high school graduate of Maryville High School where he was on the debate team, choir, golf team and band. Chad made the Missouri Music Educators Association All-State Band  (trombone), and the All-State Choir (bass) while in high school. He was a member of Drum Corps International and marched with the COLTS and Phantom Regiment later joining them on staff.

Mr. Dempsey was employed with the Edinburg C.I.S.D. since 2000. Chad currently served as the Band Director for the Edinburg North High School Mighty Cougar Band. As an Alumni of The University of Kansas, Mr. Dempsey was a proud member of the Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia.

Chad is survived by his wife, Sonia Dempsey; his two children, Sophia Elena Dempsey and Oliver Connor Dempsey; his parents, Steve and Joetta Dempsey; a brother, Tyler Douglas (Heidi) Dempsey; his father-in-law, Javier Sepulveda; two brothers-in-law, Javier (Cindy) Sepulveda Jr, and Sergio (Olga Margarita Salinas) Sepulveda; a sister-in-law, Denisse (Jose Luis) Gonzalez Jr.; three nieces, Alexa, Mariaelena, and Elena; two nephews, Austin, and Javier III; his uncle, Gary Dempsey; cousin, Chirs (Alysha) Dempsey.

Chad will be a ray of sunshine to his pride and joy, Oliver and Sophia.

Visitation will be from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. with a 7 p.m. Celebration of Life service, Sunday, May 5, 2024, at Legacy Chapels 4610 South Jackson Road in Edinburg. Chapel service will be at 3 p.m. Monday, May 6, 2024, at Legacy Chapels in Edinburg. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Edinburg. Pallbearers are Tyler Dempsey, Chris Dempsey, Sergio Sepulveda, Javier Sepulveda, Jr., Jason Rogers, and Willie Perez.

Funeral services are under the direction of Legacy Chapels in Edinburg.