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Funeral Ceremony: 1 p.m. Saturday, March 19, 2022, at the Frank and Bright Funeral home in Flora
Interment: Elmwood Cemetery
Visitation: 12 noon until 1 p.m. on Saturday at the funeral home
Billie Jean Duke, age 74, of Liberty, Missouri, passed away peacefully Tuesday morning, March 15, 2022, at the Blue Hills Rest Home in Independence, Missouri.
She was born December 29, 1947, in Flora, the daughter of Charles Edwin and Helen Ruth (Colyer) Duke.
Billie graduated from Southern Illinois University with a bachelor’s degree in Art and a major in History which led to a career with the Illinois Department of Corrections. She worked at several facilities throughout the state, including Lawrence Correctional Center in Lawrenceville and later John A. Graham Correctional Center in Hillsboro until her retirement. She had a passion for history and writing and enjoyed planting flowers in her outside gardens and taking care of her inside plants when she couldn’t be outdoors.
She is survived by her daughter: Jennifer Colyer Boose of Liberty, Missouri; brothers: David (Jeanne) Duke of Louisville, and Wayne (Betsy) Duke of Salem; as well as her best friend, Karen Mollett of Springfield.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and a brother: Charles Duke.
A funeral ceremony will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 19, 2022, at the Frank and Bright Funeral home in Flora. Interment will follow in Elmwood Cemetery. Visitation will be 12 noon until 1 p.m. on Saturday at the funeral home. Memorial Donations are suggested to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation and will be accepted through the funeral home. To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com
Jul 21, 1931 - Nov 18, 2024
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Nov 28, 1936 - Oct 29, 2024
David, Wayne and Families: We and so very sorry for your loss of both Billie and Charlie. May God grant you peace, comfort and strength today and in the days ahead. You’re in our thoughts and prayers. RIP Billie Jean❤️
Wayne, Betsy and Billie Iran's Family... What a DOUBLE loss you ALL have been dealt! My heart breaks for you. Praying God's grace, love and peace fills your hearts and your minds with sweet memories.
I’m so very sorry to learn of the passing of Billie Jean. She and I were in many of the same classes at FTHS and I always enjoyed her intelligence and sense of humor. She will be missed.
I worked with Billie at Buehlers Buy Low in Flora. She also went to school with my Mom.. Billie was always so fun to work with and always had a smile. Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers..hugs
I am thankful to have shared memories with Billie Jean....She will be missed dearly...Jen...sending love and prayers for you and your family.
So very sorry to receive this notice. Have fond memories of all the Duke children as they were neighbors and friends. Sending condolences to all the family.
Jennifer, David and Wayne, my heartfelt condolences are with you and your families. You are in my prayers that God will lift you up and comfort you as only He can do. The tragic passing of first Charlie and now Billie Jean is more than anyone should be faced with. But we know that with God, you'll be comforted and able to face each day forward. Hugs and prayers.
So sorry for your loss. We were classmates and she was always so friendly and nice to everyone.
Frank & Bright Funeral Home
and Cremation Services
500 North Main Street
Flora, Illinois 62839
Phone : (618) 662-2141
Fax: (618) 662-4600
Email: [email protected]
