On December 18th, 2023, my Granny Grace passed away. She was very special to all of us. She was always teaching us about Jesus and telling us humor-filled stories. I will miss her, but her lessons will always stay with me.
One fond memory I have is after our family moved from North Carolina to Michigan, she wrote a letter every week to my brother Clint and me for the first year of our move. Each letter was a lesson, a funny memory, or an insight into a life well-lived. Her stories, often laced with humor and wit, will be dearly missed.
On Friday, December 22nd, we celebrated her life. She was a remarkable woman whose journey through life was as impactful as inspiring. Granny Grace peacefully died on December 18, 2023, at 90 years old.
Born on April 11, 1933, in Portsmouth, Ohio, Grace's early years were shaped by the values of faith and service, growing up in a minister's home. Her education at a Christian high school academy in Frankfort, Indiana, further instilled a strong sense of community and spirituality, virtues she carried throughout her life.
Grace's passion for creativity and art led her to Indiana State University, where she honed her skills and later shared them as a high school art teacher. Her artistic talent wasn't just a profession but a way of connecting with people and bringing beauty into everyday life. Her heart, however, wasn't just in art. It was in love and devotion to her family. Married to Clyde Dupin, a preacher and evangelist, for 72 years, they were a testament to enduring love and partnership. They had three children – Ken, Joy, and Wes (my dad). The family expanded with eight grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.
Grace's story is not just one of personal achievements but of the lives she touched, the hearts she warmed, and the art she created and shared. Her legacy, etched in the lives of her extensive family and the countless individuals she met, will continue to live on, inspiring and guiding us.
Granny was laid to rest at Shady Grove Wesleyan Church Cemetery. The family gathered. Jon Dupin shared some scripture, Chad Dupin shared a memory, and Clint Dupin wrapped it up with a committal prayer. Granny Grace, though gone, remained ever present in the hearts of her loving grandchildren and other family members.
She had a way of making everyone feel special, heard, and loved. You will forever be in our hearts.
We will always love you Granny.