[Laura 1547]

I haven't been on in a reeeeeeeeaaaaaaaaallllllllyyyyy long time but I just had to reply to this one...

I think Dumbledore did actually die because otherwise why would a portrait of him appear in his (old) office along with all the other dead headmasters/mistresses?

And also on that point, Dumbledore's portrait will be very important in the last book. Because portraits can talk in the wizarding world, Harry will be able to talk to Dumbledore and possibly discuss tactics or recieve guidance and help in book 7. I think this could probably be why Rowling mentioned the portrait hanging on the wall (even if it was just a small hint)!