Joseph Leon Dupree

Joseph Leon Dupree Jr., a man of many talents and endless stories, passed away suddenly on September 26th, 2024, in Kent, Washington. He was 82 years old. Born on November 24th, 1941, in Shreveport, Louisiana, to Joseph Leon Dupree and Iris Reddix Dupree, Joseph's journey through life was as colorful and varied as the tales he loved to tell.

A proud veteran, Joseph served honorably in the United States Navy, seeing the world through a sailor's eyes. His professional life was equally diverse, spanning roles from grant writer and tutor to screenwriter and college basketball scout. He also worked for Honeywell, Aerojet, and in the Seattle and Tacoma public school systems.

Joseph's adventurous spirit led him to live in various parts of the country, including Louisiana, Washington, California, and Alaska. He was a man of faith, a confirmed Catholic who believed in Jesus Christ as his personal Savior. In his younger years, Joseph showcased his musical talent by playing the French horn in high school and even tried his hand at boxing.

Known for his intelligence, creativity, and gift for conversation, Joseph could strike up a chat with anyone. His larger-than-life personality filled every room he entered. He took great pride in his family heritage and cherished moments spent with loved ones. Joseph's passions included writing, occasional rounds of golf, watching sports and political news, dining out, and supporting his nieces and nephews.

Joseph is survived by his sisters, Yvonne Patricia Walker (Herman Sr.) and Mary Elizabeth Smith, and his brother, James Andrew Dupree (Gwen), along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Crystal Dupree, his parents, his grandparents, his sister Annette Morris, and all nine of his mother's siblings.

As we bid farewell to Joseph Leon Dupree Jr., we celebrate a life richly lived, a man who wore many hats, and a storyteller whose tales will continue to echo in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His proudest achievements - graduating from college, serving in the Navy, and watching his great-nieces and nephews grow - stand as a testament to a life well-spent in the pursuit of knowledge, service, and family.

May his stories continue to inspire, and may his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.