Highland Park Presbyterian Church reports that Rev. Bryan Dunagan, who served as senior pastor for nine years, passed away at the age of forty-four.

Executive Pastor Jay Lee verified the news of Dunagan’s passing on Facebook on Thursday. In the wee hours of Thursday, October 26, Dunagan passed away in his sleep from natural causes, according to a press release from the church.

“This news has left us shaken to our core, and we are struggling to come to terms with this profound loss,” the message read.

Lee reports that the church will have a period of guided prayer on Friday from 9 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. after holding a vigil in the Sanctuary on Thursday from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.

“The depth of our feelings this morning is beyond words. We are so grateful to each and every one of you for your unshakable love for Bryan, your unyielding leadership in the mission of our church, and your steadfast care,” the post concluded.

“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,” the release stated. “His mission was to change lives and lead individuals from all walks of life to know and follow Jesus. Thousands of lives have been influenced by his emphasis on sharing the gospel, making disciples, praying, and founding community churches (Peak Street Church, Grace Church Lake Highlands, and Good Shepherd Oak Cliff). Tens of thousands more will be impacted in the next generations.”

Dunagan is survived by his cherished wife Ali and his three children Annie, Wheeler, and Collier Jane.

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