Luella Elsie Jung Dupree

Luella Elsie (Jung) Dupree lived a remarkable life of 92 years, filled with love, courage, and determination. Born on November 9, 1932, in North Dakota to Maria Finkbeiner and Helmuth Jung, Luella’s life was marked by resilience from an early start. After losing her mother to illness at a very young age, she was placed in the care of her Aunt and Uncle. At thirteen, Luella moved to Portland, Oregon, where she reunited with her father, stepmother Peggy Jung, stepbrother Bob, and half-brother Doug Jung. She quickly adapted to her new surroundings, excelling at Tigard High School, where she was crowned Prom Queen her senior year. After graduation, Luella joined the U.S. Air Force, where her journey as a trailblazer continued. There, she met and married M.D. Dupree, with whom she had five children. Luella’s love and dedication to her family was unwavering. She balanced the demands of raising her children with pursuing her dreams. Determined to make a difference, she earned a nursing degree from Clarion College and dedicated two decades to caring for others in the nursing profession. Ahead of her time in many ways, Luella embodied the spirit of self-reliance and creativity. She was a homesteader long before it became a trend, cultivating a life of sustainability on her cherished 4-acre farm in Knox, Pennsylvania, where she lived for over 25 years. Whether gardening, canning, hunting, or tending to her animals, Luella thrived as a hardworking and resourceful woman. She was known for her willingness to tackle challenges—cross-country camping trips, drywalling her home, or performing veterinary care on her animals. A fierce advocate for equality and justice, Luella championed women’s rights, denounced racism, and always stood up for her children, her community, and the greater good. Her greatest achievements were her love for and pride in her children. Through her dedication and perseverance, she raised five compassionate, hardworking individuals who embody her values of kindness, integrity, and service to others. Luella is predeceased by her parents, stepmother Peggy, brother Bob, beloved caregivers Aunt Martha and Uncle Jacob, former husband Dempsey Dupree, and her dear companion, Jack Knudson (LaPine, Oregon). She is also predeceased by beloved son Mark Dupree (Cumberland, Maryland), who now welcomes her with open arms. She is survived by four of her children, Dal Dupree (Roanoke, VA), Holly Augustine (Waynesburg, PA), Cindy Dupree (Leesburg, VA), and Karen King (Bunker Hill, WV), as well as 16 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren who embody her legacy of strength, love, and resilience. Luella’s indomitable spirit and boundless love will continue to inspire those she leaves behind. She is not truly gone; she remains closer than ever in the hearts of all who loved her. Rest in peace, Luella. You lived a life of passion and purpose. You lived a life that made a difference in the lives of others. Your memory will forever be a blessing.

Luella Elsie Jung Dupree

November 9, 1932 - February 6, 2025