Donald Duke

Rufus Donald Duke, 88 of Gosport, died December 14, 2023 at Covenant Hospice of Pensacola, FL. He was born Junde 30, 1935 to the late Zeddie and Lillian Duke.

Survivors include his wife of 64 years, Rachel W. Duke; son Joseph Duke; granddaughters, Brandi (Tony) Stacey and Brittany (Brandon) Garrick; great granddaughters, Hailey and Alyssa Crutchfield; great grandsons, Reece Garrick and Lucas Stacey; sisters, Dean Owens and Kay (Adrian) Boutwell; brothers, Dwight Duke and Frank Duke; sister-in-law, Vicki Duke as well as other extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Marion and Richard Duke.

Donald was a member of Gosport Methodist Church. He retired as a lab technician from Monsanto Chemical Company. After retiring and living in the Pensacola-Milton area, he "re-retired" to Gosport where he enjoyed fishing, hunting and custom knife making. He took great pleasure in helping others and has been described as "one of a kind".

The family will forever be grateful for the loving care given by Joe and Dorothy Morris for Donald and his loved ones. Their care enabled Donald to be at home for a longer period of time.

Graveside services will be held Wednesday, December 20, 2023 at Gosport Cemetery with Rev. Tommy Gaillard officiating. Lathan Funeral Home, directing.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the Gosport Cemetery Fund C/O John Moore, 33705 Highway 84, Whatley, AL 36482.