Frances Ann "Jinx/Yaya" Christie Duke

Frances Ann Christie Duke, affectionately known as Jinx or Yaya, passed away on July 9, 2024, at the age of 96 in Evans, Georgia. Born on December 9, 1927, in Franklinton, Louisiana, she was the cherished daughter of Mildred Ellison and Rev. Daniel P. Jenkins. Frances was a beacon of warmth and generosity throughout her life, touching the lives of many with her extraordinary singing talent and kind-hearted nature.

Frances's journey began in her father's church, where she first showcased her singing abilities. Her talent blossomed as she performed on radio and stage in Augusta during her teenage years. Jinx graduated from Tubman High School and later attended Augusta Junior College, which laid the foundation for her remarkable career. She initially worked at The Georgia Railroad Bank before dedicating 30 years of service to the Civil Service at Fort Gordon, where she retired.

Beyond her professional life, Frances was a devout member of The Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd for over 70 years. Her faith and community were central to her life, guiding her through many of life's challenges and joys. In her later years, Jinx moved to Brandon Wilde, where she continued to share her love for music by participating in stage productions and singing for fellow residents until she felt her standards could no longer be met.

Jinx was preceded in death by her parents, her first husband Flournoy Christie, her second husband Hoyt Duke, her honorary daughter Elsie Low Gould, and her grandson John Casey Hollifield. She leaves behind a loving family including her daughters Dianne Harrison (Randy), Drew Cunningham (Chris), and Susan Christie; grandchildren Scott Harrison (Carol), Emily Harrison Dickey (Chuck), Cash Cunningham (Chrissy), Lindsey Cunningham Folley (Todd), and Ellison Hollifield; and eleven great-grandchildren, Eli, Rachel and Anna Dickey, Andrew, Miranda and Elsie Harrison, Sumter and Bates Folley, Sutton Hollifield, Scarlett and Ty Smith.

A Celebration of Life for Yaya will be held at a later date. Honoring her long-held wish, her body has been donated to the Medical College of Georgia's cadaver program, where she will continue to teach and inspire medical students.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the nursing staff and caregivers at the Pavillion at Brandon Wilde, Hospice Services of Georgia, her sitters from Just Like Family, or a charity of your choice, honoring Yaya's legacy of care and compassion.