Betty Dupree, eighty-three-years-old went home to rest Oct. 18, 2012. For weeks she’d say, “I’m getting tired now.” At the eve of her passing she was actively involved with the Cherokee Cancer Support Group with she helped to start in July 1998. She alone with four women and one male, worked tirelessly to give support to those stricken with cancer. Betty was also a cancer survivor.
Betty prospered in everything she did, because she visualized what could be. By her own example she encouraged and motivated others to be the best that they could be.
As a self-taught business woman, she’d say, “use what works.” Her management of funds from donations, memorials, tribal assistance and fundraising has allowed financial assistance for travel to are cancer treatment centers for both female and male clients, mastectomy products for breast cancer survivors or whatever a client needs.
Betty will be missed by many. A vibrant and vocal lady, although not augmentative, she’d say, “I’ve said my piece now let’s move on.” In reading about Paul’s ministry in Acts 20:33-35, I think these verses seem fitting to Betty as well: Verse 34, Yea, ye yourselves know that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me. Verse 35, I have showed you all things how that so laboring you ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, IT IS MORE BLESSED TO GIVE THEN TO RECEIVE.
After 15 years of looking to Betty for instruction and guidance, I’ve lost a true friend and like Jesus at Lazarus’ tomb, I too wept.
To each person who knew Betty, may we continue this pattern in our lives. With God’s love in our hearts we can.
Forever in our hearts,
Flora Bradley
Cherokee Cancer Support Group Facilitator
