Rob Dempsey, the cherished Christian radio show host, has died at the age of 57, just one week after revealing his diagnosis of stage 3 bladder cancer to his loyal audience.
The announcement of his passing came from HIS Radio, where Dempsey served as a station manager and co-host of “Rob and Lizz in the Morning.” The station shared the news on Facebook, stating, “Rob went to be with Jesus on Wednesday evening, October 23rd.” Colleagues and fans remembered him fondly, highlighting his infectious humor and significant impact on the Greenville community. “We lost him, but heaven gained an incredible person,” a fellow radio host remarked during a broadcast.
Dempsey had been with HIS Radio for 24 years, building a reputation for his warmth and laughter. He shocked listeners with his cancer announcement on October 15, sharing his resolve to remain positive. “Thankfully, I’m at peace today knowing God is in control,” he wrote. Dempsey expressed his determination to be present for his children and to grow old with his supportive wife, Amy.
His journey in radio began in a difficult place; as a homeless teenager struggling with addiction, he found hope through a youth pastor and the Christian radio station WCIE in Lakeland, Florida. “It was as if [the host] was speaking to me,” Dempsey recalled, sharing how he rededicated his life to Christ that night.
After overcoming his challenges, he dedicated himself to radio, which spanned 35 years. Starting in production roles, he became a volunteer DJ and eventually served as operations and program director for HIS Radio across multiple states. Throughout his life, Dempsey also battled obesity, ultimately losing 140 pounds.
He is survived by his wife, Amy, four children—Wes, Amanda, Spencer, and Elijah—and two grandchildren, Jackson and Grace. Spencer expressed gratitude for the community’s support following his father’s passing in a heartfelt Facebook tribute. “He was a great man, and I’m proud to call him my Dad,” he wrote. “Today I’m brokenhearted, yet hopeful. He’s whole, he’s healthy, and he’s dancing with his Saviour.”
