Eleanor “Ann” Dupee left an enduring legacy upon her passing at the age of 82 on November 6, 2016. A longtime advocate for local history and education, Ann was deeply involved with the Cooper Memorial Library Association, serving on its board, and was also a dedicated member of the Friends of Cooper Memorial Library.
As part of her lasting contribution, Ann bequeathed $5,000 to the Cooper Memorial Library Association, intending to be used for something meaningful to the library she cherished. When the Pastfinders of South Lake approached the Association with concerns about the deteriorating condition of the historical news archives, the board saw a perfect opportunity to honor Ann’s wishes.
The Association owns the historic South Lake news and notes, vital records of Clermont’s history. The aging documents were degrading. Recognizing the importance of preserving these historical documents, the board decided to digitize the film. The cost of converting the archival rolls to digital format slightly exceeded $5,000, but thanks to Ann’s generous donation, along with the purchase of an external hard drive for secure storage, the project was set into motion. Rachael Smoyak, CML Regional Staff Manager led the way in preparing the records that were sent to Iron Mountain and overseeing the completion of the project.
With this initiative, the digitized archives will now be housed in the Pastfinders Room at Cooper Memorial Library, ensuring that future generations have access to these invaluable records. Michelle Delaney, President of Cooper Memorial Library Association expressed deep gratitude to Rachael Smoyak, Regional Staff Manager of CML, and Anjanette Mercer, Pastfinders of SL for their dedication to preserving Clermont’s history.
Ann Dupee’s contributions to South Lake County extended far beyond the library. She and her husband, George, moved to Clermont in 1967 when they purchased the South Lake Press. After George’s passing in 1987, Ann served as editor and publisher for 25 years until her retirement. She played a crucial role in Clermont’s growth, advocating for the widening of Highway 50, the expansion of South Lake Hospital and the National Training Center, and the land acquisition that brought the library, along with the South Lake campuses of Lake-Sumter State College and the University of Central Florida, to the community.
Her commitment to public service was unwavering. Ann served multiple terms on the Clermont City Council, chaired the South Lake Chamber of Commerce, and held leadership roles in numerous organizations, including Hospice of Lake & Sumter, and the South Lake Historical Society. Her efforts earned her recognition in four prestigious Halls of Fame: the Lake County Women’s Hall of Fame, Lake-Sumter State College Hall of Fame, Lake County Business Hall of Fame, and Leadership Lake Hall of Fame.
Beyond her civic achievements, Ann was known for her warm personality, her signature flower in her hair, and her love for life—hosting her 80th birthday celebration with more than 500 attendees. She was a charter member of Beta Theta-ESA, a community service organization, and co-founder of the Kiwanis Club of South Lake.
Thanks to her foresight and generosity, the history of Clermont will be preserved for generations to come, ensuring that the stories of the past remain accessible to all. Her legacy lives on at Cooper Memorial Library, a fitting tribute to a woman who dedicated her life to the betterment of South Lake County.
