Richard Keith Dukes
May 24, 1953 ~ December 15, 2022
Born in:
Asheville, NC
Resided in:
Fletcher, NC
Richard Keith Dukes of Fletcher is a Child of God, loving husband, father, and grandfather. He was called to Heaven to be with Jesus on December 15, 2022. He was born May 24, 1953 in Asheville. He is the son of Richard C. and Dorothy W. Dukes. Richard graduated from West Henderson High School in 1971 and was a proud veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He married his loving wife, Judy Elaine Cantrell, and recently celebrated 45 years of marriage together in August. He was a talented musician, singer, and songwriter. As an officer of the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Department, he was awarded for exceptional service in the community.
He is known mostly as Dad, Daddy and Papa to those who loved him most. Surviving are his wife Judy Dukes: sons, R. Keith Dukes II and his wife Anne of Pittsburgh, Anthony Shaun Dukes and his wife Melissa of Fletcher: daughters, Bridgette Wilcox and her husband, Glenn, of Fairview, Richelle Cordwell and her husband, Stan, of Fletcher: eight grandchildren, Malaya Dukes, Lily Dukes, Connor Dukes, Rosalie Wilcox, Glenn Wilcox IV, Daphne Cordwell, Sarah Dean, and Jacob Dean: two sisters, Sharon Boyd and her husband, Neil, Terri Tillman and her husband, Jim: and one brother, Rev. Mike Dukes and his wife, Linda.
A private in-home memorial service was held on December 20. Groce Funeral Home’s Lake Julian team is assisting the Dukes family.
Services
Funeral Home Assisting The Family:
Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian
72 Long Shoals Road
Arden, NC 28704
(828)687-3530
http://www.grocefuneralhome.com
Dear Family
We have fond memories of growing up next door with Rick,Mike,Terri and Sharon on Pearson Ave. We loved your parents too. May God Bless and Comfort the entire family.
Marlene John & Mary .
My deepest sympathies to the Dukes family. I worked many years with Judy at Estes Elementary. Judy, may God hold you and your children close during the difficult days ahead. Your memories will get you through those days. Hold onto those memories, that is what will keep him alive in your heart.
With much love to you and your family.
Melody Burleson
I am so very sorry to hear of Rick’s passing. I remember his sweet smile and love for his family.
You all are in our prayers.
Laura Bassett Parker
To all of the family,
I know that there is absolutely nothing in the world that can replace the wonderful person that you have all lost here next to you. I will miss his most contagious laugh ♥️ He spent his first CHRISTmas in heaven with our LORD and SAVIOR. My deepest sympathies with you all.
Tina Plumley
Judy I am so sorry to hear of Rick’s passing. Praying for you and your family.
Judy, thinking of you and your family and sending you lots of love. I know Rick will be missed by so many people who loved him. I can remember years ago him picking up you and the kids from Estes at the end of the day. You, your kids, and Sharon are thought of during this time and I will continue to hold you in my prayers for peace and healing. May you feel God’s love and peace.
Judy and family, I’m so sorry to hear about Rick’s passing. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers!
Judy and Sharon I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Rick. I remember the times he was present at Estes during the years. He always had that smile. Blessings and prayers for your family during this very difficult time.
Loveta Lewis