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Joan Duke Obituary
Our family unexpectedly lost our beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, Joan Mary Duke, on January 13th, 2024. She was 93 years old, just six weeks shy of her 94th birthday. Joan passed away peacefully at her home. Born on March 5, 1930, in Floral Park, NY, she was the daughter of Charles and Mary Davis. Joan is preceded in death by her husband, Charles (Charlie) Irving Duke; and their daughter, Susan McAlpin.
When she was just 15, Joan met Charlie, the love of her life. After graduating from high school, Joan went on to receive her degree in education from Adelphi University in 1951. On June 16, 1951, she and Charlie were married. They went on to have many adventures together, including moving their young family onto a houseboat and down the intercoastal waterway from Virginia to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. They lived in Florida for seven years before moving to Pisgah Forest, NC in 1975. Over 60 years they went on to raise five children and three grandchildren.
Joan and Charlie loved their life in the mountains of North Carolina. Joan enjoyed her tennis (she played well into her 80s), and her bridge groups; and was an avid sports fan, especially the Atlanta Braves. Joan loved to bake, and her family and friends always requested her pies, cookies, and coffee cakes for holidays and gatherings. Supporting education for women was always important to her, and she was an active member of P.E.O. (Philanthropic Educational Organization) for many years.
Joan Mary's life was a collection of chapters that told a story of dedication, love, and kindness. She is survived by her children, Stephen Duke (Carla), Patrice Jerome (Phillip), David Duke (Tineasia), and Elizabeth MacDonald (Scott); three grandchildren they raised, Chris McAlpin, Aaron McAlpin, and Patrice McAlpin, as well as 10 additional grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; and her beloved dog, Murphy.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the home of her daughter, Patti Jerome, on January 27th from 2-4 pm.
Instead of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to P.E.O. or any animal rescue of your choice.
P.E.O. Foundation, 3700 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50312.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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