Deacon Willie James Dupree

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Hence forth there is laid up

for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to

me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.”

-II Timothy 4: 7-8

Willie James Dupree, age 91, of Garysburg, North Carolina, peacefully passed away on March 19th, 2025. He was born on August 9th, 1933, in Eastman, Georgia, to the late Charlie and Doshie Dupree. Willie James was one of six children in the family. After graduating from Peabody High School in Eastman, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he proudly served from 1955 to 1957.

Following his military service, Willie James moved to New York, where he worked in logistics. It was there that he met the love of his life, Catherine Weaver, in a beauty shop. They went on their first date, and on December 19th, 1959, they married. Their bond was unshakeable, and they were often seen together, demonstrating a love and respect for one another that many admired.

Willie James gave his life to Christ at an early age, becoming a member of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Eastman, Georgia. After relocating to New York, he joined Canaan Baptist Church, where he was ordained as a deacon and served faithfully for many years. In 2001, he and Catherine moved to Garysburg, North Carolina, where they made their home in her family house. Willie James enjoyed the peaceful life in North Carolina, often found sitting on the back porch, feeding and watching the cats, appreciating the land he loved. 

In 2002, Willie James became a member of Roanoke Salem Baptist Church in Garysburg, where he remained an active and devoted member. He served as a deacon, president of the Noonday Prayer Ministry, a member of the Senior Choir, Pastor’s Aide Ministry, Couple’s Ministry, and Men’s Fellowship Ministry. He was always willing to lend a hand wherever there was a need, both within the church and the community. Willie James’ love for God was unwavering, and he was known for his servant’s heart. Even in the face of illness, he never gave up on attending church, once driving himself there on a Sunday because he longed to be in the house of the Lord.

Willie James had an incredible ability to recall and share past memories with his family, and his storytelling will be deeply missed and cherished. He looked forward to his weekly conversations with his brother and delighted in the visits from his little nephews, who never failed to entertain him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Doshie Dupree; his sisters, Mary Stanley and Annie Ruth Oats; and his brother, Horace Dupree. He was also preceded by his nieces, Cassandra Thomas and Latasha Oates, and nephew, Bernard Stanley.

Willie James leaves behind cherished memories with his beloved wife, Catherine, his brothers, Butch of Warner Robins, Georgia, and Leon of New York, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family. His surviving family members include Leon Dupree Jr., Terrence Dupree, Bridgette DupreeOwens, Betty Stanley-Riley, Wanda Stanley, Winslow Stanley, Grady Stanley, Melvina, Robert, Westley, Edward, Shanice, Vanessa, Shawnita, Shaunte, and William and Jean Sykes, who were like family to James and Catherine. He is also survived by his godson, Roosevelt Anderson, and numerous other family members and friends who will deeply miss him.

Willie James’ legacy of faith, service, and love for family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Relatives and Friends are encouraged to visit Deacon Dupree's tribute wall to share memories, extend condolences and to order floral tributes, as sentiments to the family. 

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"Professional Care, With Dignity & Integrity" 

to the family of Deacon Willie James Dupree.

We ask that you unite with us in remembering the family in both thought and prayer. 

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