Sylvia June Duke's Obituary
Sylvia June Duke, who was affectionately called “Syl” by her loving siblings, was the fourth of six children born to her wonderful parents, Neal and Leona Smith on October 14, 1940.
She attended and graduated from Kelloggsville High School in 1958 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Sylvia was the secretary of her class her senior year, she also served during her Junior and Senior year on the Student Council, National Honor Society, choir and Girls Athletic Association (G.A.A.). In 1973 she
married the love of her life Dr. Albert Duke. Sylvia cherished and adored her three lovely children, D’Wayne, Daryl Sr. and Kimberly.
Sylvia worked at Lear Siegler which later became Smith’s Industries and served in many management capacities in the data processing and Library while employed, until her retirement. She was a member of Bethel Pentecostal Church under the leadership of Pastor Horace M. Young and Bishop William C. Abney. She was very active in the choir and youth group for many years. Later she served with her husband who
founded New Life Fellowship Church and New Life Outreach Ministry. In 2006, she became a member of Revolution Christian Ministries under the leadership of Dr. Jermone Glenn.
Later, Sylvia and her husband moved to Mansfield, TX to be with their daughter and her husband where she resided until this time. She became a member of The Chosen Vessel Cathedral while in Texas.
Sylvia encountered many health issues, but she was a fighter and stood by God for healing for every situation she went through and that He did miraculously.
Sylvia was proceeded in death by her husband Dr. Albert Duke, her parents, Deacon Neal Smith and Leona Smith, two sisters, Deloris Haggard and Joyce Clemons, one brother, Neal Smith Jr.
She leaves those who will celebrate the memory of her life, her three children, Dwayne (Ann) Smith, Daryl (Kathy) Smith, Kimberly (Dounwie) Austin, two sisters, Arlene (Bishop Richard) Young, Geraldine (Clifford) Cobbin, and a special brother-in-love Roderick Clemons; eight grandchildren, Daryl Jr. (Monique), Alysha, D’Andria, CJ (Ashley), Courtney, Arieyana, Demi and Keith; five great-grandchildren and a host of nieces,
nephew and friends. Daisy her beloved puppy will truly miss her love.
What’s your fondest memory of Sylvia?
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