Duane A. Persinger

Duane Alfred Persinger, 63, of 70 Dabneys Road, Raphine, peacefully went to be with his Lord and savior on Monday, October 20, 2025, at his residence.

He was born on July 20, 1962, in Waynesboro to the late Alfred Watson, III and Helen Marie Persinger.

He resided in his dream home that he built with his late wife of twenty-eight years, Fonda Sue Persinger.

Throughout his life, Duane exemplified an unwavering work ethic. He grew up working on his family’s dairy farm, where he developed many skills that would serve him well throughout his life. He was employed by Alcoa for twenty-three years and by McKee Foods for seventeen years as a Maintenance Mechanic, and he also earned the distinction of Master Electrician. Duane was exceptionally talented when it came to mechanical work and could fix or fabricate just about anything. He enjoyed being in the field on his tractor, working on his trucks, riding his motorcycle, camping, and traveling.

He was a devoted husband and father who understood the importance of leading and providing for his family. Duane faithfully attended various churches over the years, most recently New Covenant Church in Raphine. He was a shining example of what it means to be a good steward of the blessings in his life, taking great pride and care in maintaining his home and his vehicles.

He is survived by his significant other, Peggy Botkin; his son, Cody Duane Persinger and his wife, Sheridan and their daughter, Tatum, whom he loved very much; his brother, David Erskine Persinger and his wife, Stacie and their four children, Brooke, Samantha, Kooper and Andrew; sister-in-law, Darlene and her husband, Mickey; and his nephew, Zack Strickler and his wife, Kylee - who were all very close to Duane.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Fonda Sue Rankin Persinger; his grandparents, Alfred and Effie Persinger and Guy and Edith Houser; and his father and mother-in-law, James and Dottie Rankin.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Friday, October 24, 2025, at Henry Funeral Home in Staunton. The family would like everyone that can to wear Harley shirts in honor of Duane.

A celebration of life will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at Henry Funeral Home in Staunton.

A graveside service will follow at Old Providence Church Cemetery in Steeles Tavern with Pastor Theresa Moore officiating. A meal will be provided to all in attendance following the graveside service.

If you have a classic car, truck, or motorcycle we encourage you to drive it to the service.

Some of Duane’s closest friends and family members will honor him by serving as pallbearers, including David Persinger, Todd Fitzgerald, Mickey Strickler, Matt Moore, Gary Rankin, Alan Huntley, Greg Thompson, Zack Strickler, Kooper Persinger, and Andrew Persinger.