Ronald "Ron" Wayne DuPree

Ronald "Ron" Wayne DuPree, born on July 10, 1940, in Dade City, Florida, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2026, at Astoria Senior Living in Winter Haven. He lived a full and meaningful life marked by dedication to his family, career, and personal passions.

Ron devoted many years to serving as a helicopter pilot and was also a proud veteran of the United States Army. His hands were known for their skill—as it was often said that he could fix anything. Outside of work, Ron enjoyed riding motorcycles, fishing, and hunting.

He was a beloved husband for 64 years to Neva DuPree. Together, they nurtured a loving family, including their daughter Shonia Lee Bailey and her husband David of Lakeland, and their son Anthony DuPree and his wife Stacey of Bartow. Ron was also a proud grandfather to Eric Bailey, Breyn Bailey, Hunter DuPree, Holly DuPree, and Rebecca Tyler.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Lucian and Edith DuPree, and his brothers, James and Keith DuPree.

A visitation will be held on March 23, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church in Lake Wales. Following the visitation, a funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. at the same location. Interment will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at Florida National Cemetery. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.