Julius Warren Dupree

Breaux Bridge- A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 9 a.m., on Monday, July 17, 2023. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Parks for Julius Warren Dupree, 95, a man of many talents and passions, who passed away on July 12, 2023, at St. Joseph Hospice in Lafayette.

A visitation took place at the funeral home in Breaux Bridge on Sunday, July 16, 2023, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

A rosary was recited at 7 p.m. on Sunday by the Knights of Columbus. 

Rev. Nick Dupre officiated at the Funeral Mass. Readers will be Mandy Granger Carmen Hightower. Gift bearers were his three daughters Diane Green, Laura Bray and Renee Granger. 

Interment  followed at Central Louisiana Veterans Cemetery in Leesville, La.

Julius was born on March 26, 1928, in Alexandria and lived a life filled with remarkable achievements. In his early years, Julius showcased his musical prowess as an avid trumpet player and became an indispensable member of his youth band. His love for music encompassed various genres, with some of his favorite artists including legends like Louis Armstrong, Glenn Miller, Frank Sinatra, Count Basie, and Willie Nelson. Julius’s trumpet echoed through the hearts of those who had the privilege of hearing him play.

Julius took pride in his military service aboard Navy Ship #YMS354 during World War II. He witnessed history unfold firsthand when he saw an Atomic Bomb Testing at Bikini Atoll during Operation Crossroads in 1946. One of his treasured memories during his naval career was saluting General MacArthur at the Tokyo Imperial Palace during a shore leave. His patriotism and dedication to his country will forever be cherished.

Julius’s career was a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication. While working for Raymond Concrete Pile, he played a significant role in the restoration of the White House in 1949-a project that left an indelible mark on American history. Later in life, he established several successful restaurants such as Jay’s Barbeque and Dale Robertson’s New Frontier Stage Stops. His culinary passion led him to become a member of the Louisiana Restaurant Association during the 1950 and 1960’s.

Beyond the realm of food and music, Julius found solace in the company of animals. He was renowned for his expertise in training thoroughbred and quarter horses. A familiar presence at racetracks such as Evangeline Downs, Delta Downs, and Louisiana Downs, Julius embraced the thrill of racing and formed meaningful connections within the Louisiana Horseman’s Association.

Julius also earned his private pilots licenses in the mid-1950’s. One evening, he managed to land his plane, after the engine failed, in a rice field in South Louisiana. While landing the plane he hit a dike in the rice field which caused the plane to flip over.  However, he waked away without a scratch on him.  

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Julius possessed unmatched charisma and an innate ability to connect with others. He never hesitated to strike up a conversation, always making those around him feel valued and heard. Whether traveling near or far, Julius would often encounter familiar faces, a testament to the lasting impression he made on people’s lives.

Among his hobbies and interests, Julius had a natural talent for salesmanship. His skills extended beyond one particular domain; he could sell anything from barbecue equipment to mobile homes and even automobiles. The joy he derived from making deals was evident in the sparkle of his eyes and the warmth of his smile.

One of Julius’s proudest accomplishments was his involvement in establishing the annual Priests vs. Seminarians basketball game-a tradition that garnered support for vocations in the Diocese of Lafayette. Together with his daughter, Renee Granger, they created an event that not only brought people together but also provided meaningful assistance to those pursuing their religious callings.

Julius Warren Dupree will be profoundly missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of crossing paths with him during his remarkable journey. His infectious spirit, unwavering determination, and genuine kindness have left an everlasting impression on all who were fortunate enough to know him.

He is survived by his children, Elizabeth “Renee” Granger (Percy), Diane “Dee” D. Green (Wayne), Laura D. Bray (Steve), Thomas Warren Dupree (Linda), John Allen Dupree (Rhea), Jay Patrick Dupree (companion, Elizabeth Long) and Michael George Dupree (Katie); grandchildren, Jessica Dupree Kettler, Jacquelyn Dupree Esteves, Ervin Willis, Jr., Jeremey Steven Bray, Jennifer Bray Adler, Carmen Dupree Hightower, Camille Patrice Schaaf, James Michael Dupree, Brandon Louis Granger, Mandy Elizabeth Granger and Megan Renee Granger; 18 great-grandchildren, eight great-great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Mary Margaret “Dolly” Dupree; parents, Julius and Elizabeth Nolan Dupree; and daughter-in-law Jackie W. Dupree.

Pallbearers were Ervin Willis, Jr., Brandon Granger, James Dupree, Trey Willis, Trace Willis and P.L. Granger. 

The family would like to extend a special thanks to St. Joseph Hospice. 

Pellerin Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

(Pd.Adv.)