DUKE, Marie

Marie Johnson Duke, 89, a longtime resident of Roll, Arizona, entered an eternal life on June 28, 2008. She was born November 6, 1918 in Tyler, Arkansas. Marie spent her childhood in Arkansas, graduating from Bradford High School. In 1945 she moved to California and received her 1st class welder's certificate in order to work and serve her country during World War II in the shipyards. In the early 1950's she moved to Roll, Arizona. She became the owner/operator of the Mohawk Valley Trailer Park. In 1961, she married E.L. "Chuck" Duke. During the next 25 years they farmed, fished, and traveled. Their favorite fishing spot was in Puertecitos, Mexico, where they owned a vacation home. After her husband's death in 1985, Marie continued to operate the trailer park until she was 85 years old. Marie is survived by her brother, Billy Joe Johnson, of Bakersfield, Calif.; sisters, Mary Sue Winchester, Norma Lee Sheppard, and Ida Ruth Burress, all of Bradford, Ark.; stepdaughter, Barbara Barnes, of Medford, Ore.; and longtime friend and travel companion, Neva Bowman, of Yuma. She was preceded in death by her husband, Chuck Duke; parents, Ralph and Eula Johnson; brothers, Lail and Robert Johnson; and sisters, Mona Wilson and Elva Reinhert. Marie was well known for her quick wit and her generosity. She spent her life helping others. She provided housing, clothing, money, and fed numerous people throughout her lifetime. She may not have had any children of her own, but she has touched the lives of many that love her. Marie will definitely be missed. Marie's celebration of life will be held on July 12, 2008, at the Mohawk Valley Presbyterian Church in Roll, Arizona at 10 a.m. Pastor Cecil Pratt will officiate. Her final resting place will be at the Heard Cemetery in Bradford, Arkansas. In lieu of flowers, it is requested that donations be made to Hospice of Yuma, 1824 S. 8th Avenue, Yuma, AZ 85364.