Kenneth Ray Duke

Kenneth Ray Duke, 87, passed away days before his spouse of 63 years, Glynda. Kenneth passed away on October 28, 2025, and Glynda followed him on October 30, 2025.

Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation for both Kenneth and Glynda at Croley Funeral Home in Gilmer on Monday, November 3, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. A funeral service will be held at Rosewood Baptist Church on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at 10:00 AM. Interment to follow at Rosewood Cemetery.

Pallbearers are Danny Lastaad, Les Morris, B.J. Upchurch, Bryce Bradshaw, Randy Duke, Jimmy McClelland, Gene Duke and Coy Watkins.

Kenneth enjoyed a prolific and fulfilling career as an engineering technician for the Texas Department of Transportation, where he devoted 35 years of his life. His contributions to the field were significant, and he was well-respected among his peers for his dedication and expertise.

A true animal lover, he ingrained this affection into his family values, passing it on to his daughter, instilling a sense of compassion and care for all living beings. Outside of work, Kenneth took considerable pride in their immaculate yard, often admired by neighbors, and cultivated beautiful vegetable gardens that reflected their nurturing spirit.

In addition to gardening, Kenneth was an avid golfer, a passion he cherished since his early twenties. Many afternoons were spent on the green, where he shared laughs and created lasting memories with friends and fellow golf enthusiasts.

Glynda dedicated her professional life to Upshur Rural Electric, where she devoted 30 years of hard work before retiring. Her commitment and service left a lasting impact on those who worked alongside her.

Outside of her career, Glynda was a true lover of life, engaging in a variety of hobbies that brought her joy. She was an avid reader who always had a book nearby.

Glynda’s love for puzzles was well known; she rarely missed an opportunity to tackle a challenging crossword or Sudoku. Glynda also had a special passion for exploring garage sales, where she could often be found rummaging through treasures, her eyes sparkling with excitement at each new discovery.

Kenneth and Glynda were longtime members of Harmony United Methodist Church. Their life was characterized by their kind spirit and devotion to their church and its members

Those left to cherish their memory are their daughter, Carolyn Duke; Kenneth’s sister, Dorothy Warren; her sister, Jimmie Lee Spencer; their sisters in law, Jan Duke, Connie Duke and Ruth Duke; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, James Duke and Izora Loftis Duke; his brothers, Wayne Duke, Lester Wendell Duke, Larry Duke; his sisters, Jessie Mae Wilson, Jo Laney, Ruth Culpepper and Ruby Weatherford. Glynda was preceded in death by her parents, W.W. Still and Mary Steelman Still and her sister, Betty Reeves.