James Alva Duke, age 85, of Louisville, formerly of Caneyville, passed away Thursday, (November 2, 2023) in Louisville, KY.

He was born on June 4, 1938 in Caneyville, KY, the son of the late Nesten and Lucy Brooks Duke.

He was a foreman for Jefferson Woodworking and retired after 37 years. He was also a farmer. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, four-wheeling, boxing, watching Westerns on television, and U.K. basketball.  He was also a big Bluegrass music fan. He was married to his wife, Hazel "Sugar" Hazelwood Duke for 51 years until her death.

He is survived by his daughters, Jamie Harris and Kimberly Whitehead (Stephen Bosher) all of Louisville; grandchildren, Angela Henderson (Tommy), James Anthony Rofgren, Sierra Whitehead (Michael Hayes); great-grandchild, Jaxson Henderson; and several nieces and nephews.

Other than his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Hazel "Sugar" Duke and five brothers.

Funeral services will be at 2:00 p.m. Friday, (November 10, 2023) at the Dermitt Funeral Home in Leitchfield. Stephen Bosher will be officiating. Burial will be in the Brown Cemetery.

Visitation will be at the Dermitt Funeral Home from 10:00 a.m. on Friday until time of services.