Bryan Dunagan, the beloved Senior Pastor of Highland Park Presbyterian Church, died unexpectedly in the early morning hours of Thursday, October 26, of natural causes in his sleep at home. Dunagan, 44, is survived by his cherished wife Ali and his three children Annie, Wheeler, and Collier Jane.
“This news has left us shaken to our core, and we are struggling to come to terms with this profound loss,” said Jay Lee, Executive Pastor, Highland Park Presbyterian Church. “The grief we are feeling over Bryan’s sudden passing is impossible to describe, both personally and for our church. Bryan is loved deeply here, and his care for this congregation, our neighbors, the world, and for sharing the gospel will be deeply missed.”
“When we don’t know what to do, we are taught to turn to God and pray,” Lee continued, “We are lifting up the Dunagan family, our congregation, our church plants, our staff, and our entire community inside and outside of our church walls. Please pray for wisdom for our church and our leaders as we grieve and navigate our next steps.”
Dunagan’s impact on Highland Park Presbyterian Church during his tenure was significant. After being installed as Senior Pastor in July of 2014, Dunagan faithfully navigated a long-established congregation through a denominational change; shepherded a successful capital campaign to update the church campus; overcame the challenges of ministry during COVID-19; and led the church to record growth and impact.
Dunagan was a gifted communicator and a humble servant leader, leaving behind a legacy of sharing the love of Christ throughout his life and ministry. His passion was transforming lives and pointing people of all generations to find and follow Jesus. His focus on spreading the gospel, discipleship, prayer, and planting community churches (Peak Street Church, Grace Church Lake Highlands, and Good Shepherd Oak Cliff) has impacted thousands of lives today and will impact tens of thousands more for generations to come.
At this time, the church leadership asks the public to honor the privacy of the Dunagan family.
Details about Bryan Dunagan’s memorial service and guidance on supporting the Dunagan family will be available at hppres.org/bryan as it becomes available.
