Laura M. (Smith) Dupree, 83, a devoted mother, grandmother and friend passed home to the Lord to be with her husband and daughter, Tuesday, January 15, 2008 in the University of Massachusetts Hospital.

   Laura's husband of 45 years Elmer Jack Dupree passed in 1995. Her daughter Sheila B. Dupree passed in 2001. She is survived by her devoted children, Sharon E. Dupree with whom she lived, and Gordon L. Dupree of Lagrange, Ohio; a sister, Rhoda Ewell of Burlington, N.J.; four adored grandchildren; eight cherished great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews. Besides her husband and daughter, she was pre deceased by two brothers, Leonard S. Smith, Berkley K. Smith, and her parents Berkley Smith, Sr. and Beatrice J. (Stanley) Smith Heidelberg. Laura was born in Worcester, graduated from Commerce High School and has lived here all her life.

   Mrs. Dupree for the past 30 years worked as a Procedures Clerk for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Probate and Family Court in Worcester. She previously worked many years at the former Filene's Department Store.

   She was a devoted member of A.M.E. Zion Church, a Former Usher and board member, a missionary, and choir member.

   Funeral services will be held Monday, January 21st at 11:00 a.m. in Emanuel Baptist Church, 717 Main St. Worcester. Friends and relatives are invited to pay their respects from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. in the church. Burial will be in Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Sunday School Fund, care of A.M.E. Zion Church, P.O. Box 20220, Worcester, MA 01602 The MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. is honored to assist the family with arrangements.