Pastor Frank C. Dupree

Pastor Frank C. Dupree, a well-known Riverhead minister, passed away Dec. 28 at 8:30 a.m. He was 89 years old.

He was born Sept. 9, 1929, to Margaret (Fender) and Francis Dupree.

Considered by many to be one of the great preachers of the 20th century, Pastor Dupree had a very interesting life before becoming a minister circa 1978.

He left the Suffolk County Police Department in the 1960s, having achieved the rank of acting lieutenant. After leaving the police department he worked in sales, eventually founding the successful Dupree Advertising Agency. Pastor Dupree’s life dramatically changed on New Year’s Eve in 1969, when he committed his life to Jesus while listening to Billy Graham on television.

Pastor Dupree and his wife, Phyllis, founded Living Water Full Gospel Church in Aquebogue. Today, Living Water Church is a thriving community of faith now pastored by Frank’s son, George Dupree.

Pastor Dupree is survived by his wife of 70 years, Phyllis (née Smith) Dupree. He is also survived by his six children, Linda Saldon, Frank, Loren Caputo, George, Jeffrey and Stephen; their spouses, Rick, Giovanna, John, Carolyn, Theresa and Erin; 25 grandchildren; 37 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild, who is on the way.

Visiting hours will take place Friday, Jan. 4, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at Tuthill-Mangano Funeral Home, 406 East Main St., Riverhead, NY 11901. A prayer service will be held Sunday, Jan. 6, at 3 p.m. at Living Water Full Gospel Church, 24 Shade Tree Lane, Riverhead.