David Wayne Dupree

David Wayne Dupree was born on July 7, 1955, to Chester and Winona Dupree in Dallas, Texas, and was raised in Pleasant Grove. He attended Skyline High School, where he graduated in 1973. From an early age, David had a passion for cars—especially his three ’67 Camaros—which he worked on over the years and proudly cruised Buckner Boulevard with his brother Mike on Friday and Saturday nights, always on the lookout for someone ready to race.

As disco made its debut, David discovered another talent: dancing. Known for creating his own routines, he earned several trophies for his impressive moves. His strong work ethic began early with his first job sacking groceries at Minyard’s. He quickly advanced, becoming the youngest manager at Tom Thumb and later serving as an area-wide manager for RC Cola.

David met the love of his life, Karen Clagg, at the Midnight Sun in Seven Points, where he challenged her to a game of pool. They were married on June 24, 1977. Shortly afterward, they began a new adventure, moving to Redding, California with a three-month-old child. Less than a year later, missing family, they returned home to Texas.

After returning to Texas, David joined his father’s excavation business, where he worked for many years. He was also a partner in opening Studio 35 Photography in 1983 with his wife, Karen, his sister, and brother-in-law, Cheryl and Charles Martin. Following the devastating loss of a sister-in-law and business partner, David and Karen carried on Studio 35, where David’s artful eye and creative talent truly flourished. Together, they owned and grew the business for 20 years. David became affectionately known as “the Picture Guy,” a name many recognized wherever he went.

An avid archer, David competed in numerous East Texas 3D archery tournaments, winning often enough to earn an invitation to the International Bowhunting Organization Finals. He loved hunting deer and hogs and enjoyed fishing trips with his dad. David and Karen shared many years of hunting, traveling, and making memories together.

Known lovingly as Papa, David took great joy in being a positive and influential role model for his grandchildren. He loved cooking, playing outdoor games, teaching archery, and fine-tuning his bow. A natural jokester, David was known for his incredible sense of humor, paired with a kind, gentle, and patient spirit. His grandchildren absolutely adored him.

David and Karen were blessed with 48 years of marriage, filled with love, laughter, and beautiful memories that will be cherished forever.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Chester and Winona Dupree; his sisters, Janice Hickson and Carolyn Dollgener; and his brother, Sammy Dupree.

David is survived by his wife, Karen Dupree, of Talihina, Oklahoma; his daughter, Krissy Dupree-Williams, and husband Jerald, of Mabank, Texas; and his brother, Mike Dupree, and wife Brenda, of Jacksonville, Texas. He is also survived by seven cherished grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.