Alice Christine Leonard Duke

HENDERSON-Angels welcomed home Alice ‘Christine’ Leonard Duke age 93, on Monday, January 2, 2023. Born in Wake County on March 18, 1929, she was the daughter of the late John Samuel Leonard and Elizabeth Doyle Leonard. She was predeceased by her husband, Dallas John Duke, Sr; brothers Gerald B. Leonard, John R Leonard, Frank Leonard, Norman Leonard; sisters Rosa L. Adams, Lucretia Y. Williamson and her best lifetime friend, Helen C. Mabrey. Over the years, she worked at Parker’s Drug Store, Rose’s, Americal and Duke’s Mini Mart. She was a member of South Henderson Church of God. Her childhood bedroom became the first meeting room of the church in 1930s. She was one of the oldest surviving members, as well as the longest serving member. Over the years, she was a Sunday School teacher, choir member, etc. She attended until she was unable to drive. She liked adventure; riding an upside-down rollercoaster when they were a novelty while her daughter and cousin watched from the sideline. She was fortunate to see our country from ‘sea to shining sea;' from the Outer Banks of NC to Seattle, Washington; from Niagara Falls to Key West. She is survived by one son, Dallas J. Duke, Jr. and wife Wanda of Raleigh; one daughter, Angela J. Duke and husband, Dave Hughes of Durham; one grandson, Dallas John Duke, III and wife Tabitha and one granddaughter, Terri L. Duke; three great grandchildren, Stephanie, Eric and Lisa; brothers S. Gary Leonard, Aaron D. Leonard; sisters Mary L. Hammon, JoAnn Jones and extended family. The family will receive friends Saturday, January 7th from 1:00 to 1:45 pm. at J. M. White Funeral Home. An informal graveside service will be held Saturday, January 7 at 2 pm at Elmwood Cemetery. Attendees can share memories at that time. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: North Henderson Baptist Church Senior Ministry, 1211 North Garnett Street, Henderson, NC, 27536 or the charity of your choice. The family thanks the various clubs, schools, ministries and individuals that share their time weekly with the residents at Senior Citizen Home, Inc. Lastly, thanks to the care staff at Senior Citizen Home, Inc.