Daniel Owen Duke

Mr. Daniel Owen Duke, age 80 passed away at the family residence Sunday,  July 9, 2017 surrounded by his family. Owen died at 5:30 A.M. on his only son’s birthday, who incidentally was born at exactl 5:30 A.M. Owen was born August 28, 1936 in Gaskin the son of Daniel Elisha and Ronie Gill Duke.  He worked in data processing for Public Aviation on Eglin Air Force Base which later became Fairchild.  When Fairchild relocated, and since Owen was an only child, he would not leave the farm, but rather opted to stay and help his parents.   He then began employment with Fleming Foods, now known as SYSCO Systems,  a position he held for some twenty five years until retirement. In his retirement he found time to “work his cows”, he loved them and raised them, but would never eat one of them.  His mind was always active, even into his later years and he kept current with local and national news.  Fishing was an enjoyment to Owen, and even though he loved fishing, he would never hunt because he could not think of killing an animal.  Owen was a supporter, an advocate and an encourager to his wife in her pastoral duties.  He worked hard, lived modestly, paid his bills, loved his family, honored his wife, loved and served God and has now become a part of the church eternal.

Among survivors are his wife Betty Murphy Duke, his son Danny Duke and wife Sue, his daughters, Kathy Duke Cordle and husband John and  Carolyn Duke Watson and husband Burnis.  Seven grandchildren also survive.

Floral arrangements are being accepted.  Among those asked to serve as pallbearers are Danny Glidewell, Hank Davis, David Davis, Charles Davis, Ernest McClellan, David Trentman, Wayne Smith and Stevie Smith.   A time of visitation will be Wednesday, July 12, 2017 from 6 until 8 P.M. in Jerry Evans Chapel.  Funeral services will be held Thursday, July 13, 2017 at 2:00 P.M. in Jerry Evans Chapel with Reverend Larry Murphy officiating.  Burial will follow in Caney Creek Cemetery.