As most of you know, Bill Dupper Sr. has passed away. Bill was one of the people that started King’s Things.
Several people have asked about the history of King’s Things, who, when and why it was started. I’ll try to give you some answers and observations. In late 1979 and the early 1980s a phenonium termed “Stagflation” was taking place, high prices, high interest rates and high unemployment.
People in the community were hurting. People were knocking on the doors of the churches asking for assistance.
Mr. Dupper along with several Pastors and community leaders started a conversation about forming an organization that would consolidate the resources of the five churches in town. This was several years before King’s Things was incorporated (1983).
I’ll try to fill in those three years. A food pantry was established in a closet in the basement of a church. From what I have gathered, Bill Dupper was King’s Things. Initiating financial assistance that was made available for emergency help, utilities cut off notices, limited food supplies were being distributed but not by a team, but by Bill Dupper.
At Bill’s funeral service, a hymn was sung, “Here I am, Lord. I have heard my people cry all who dwell in dark and sin my hand will save”. If not written for the life of Bill, then who. He heard the calling, and most importantly, responded and acted.
Joining the Foods Bank of South Jersey was Bill’s idea along with much more. Complimenting Bill in his calling to help people in the community was Carol, his wife and partner for over 60 years.
Thanksgiving and Christmas programs were developed. This was prior to the official incorporation of King’s Things.
Several years ago, we made large purchases to perfect the Christmas baskets of food. We were at Aldi’s loading the pickup truck with food with Carol Dupper standing on the bed of the truck, and crying.
I asked what happened.
A lady in the parking lot asked Carol if she was Mrs. Dupper. With that, she handed Carol a $100 bill, stating some time ago she or her family was aided by King’s Things.
Bill Dupper’s life was well spent, as devoted husband, father and pillar of the community. He was a true Christian gentleman. For those of us who knew him, we gained much.
by Gerry Siglow
