Kelly Gini Duke

Kelly Gini Duke passed away unexpectedly on the evening of January 11, 2023 in the arms of her husband after a week long battle in the hospital trying to overcome a catastrophic event that left irreversible damage to her body. She was only 52 years of age.

Kelly is survived by and will forever be missed by her husband James C. Duke, together for 23 years. She was his care taker and he, her true love. They went on countless adventures from far away to not so far at all, truly becoming each others best friend and daily support. She was also loved by and so proud of her stepdaughter Lacy. She watched her grow up and had her very own spot in Lacy's life. She leaves behind her son-in-law Nick Jones, and her one and only grand baby - Walker (age 5). Her childlike playfulness and light that each of us knew and loved shined when he was near her. We will dearly miss that part of her.

Kelly had a passion for her God and it showed to anyone who met her. This was also evident in her earning of a Masters in Theology, her writings of poetry and daily devotional messages as well as spreading The Word through conversations and example. One of the only comforts she leaves us is knowing that she is safe and in the presence of The One she spoke to daily.

She also had a passion for collecting. This passion is evident in her home, from Cinderella figurines to cowboy boots. Her earthly possessions she no longer needs we will cherish and use to remember her and the memories represented by each piece. And the memories made when no collectible was bought and no picture took, those moments we will cherish always as well.

There are no right words to truly convey what Kelly meant to her family and friends; she truly has left a void in our hearts and our future. But we were blessed to know her, to love her and that we were loved by her. Her true virtue was forgiveness, she gave it to all - even those undeserving.

Kelly will be brought home and a celebration of her life will be held at Mobile Memorial Gardens on Saturday, January 21, 2023 from 12:00-2:00 p.m. in the Chapel.