Harold Douglas ‘Red’ Dukes 75, of Island, Kentucky passed away Thursday, November 2, 2023 at his home in Island. Harold Douglas Dukes was born July 25, 1948 in Logan County, Kentucky to the late Brack and Lurie Garrett Dukes, was married to the former Sharon Joy Rickard on March 26, 1982 and was affectionately known as “Red” to his friends and lovingly called “Papaw” by his cherished grandchildren and great-grandson. Red was a beloved figure in his community and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Red began his career as a coal miner, a profession he dedicated himself to until his retirement. His work ethic was admired by those who knew him, and his dedication to his craft was evident in his commitment to the job. Despite the challenges of the mining industry, Red always brought a positive attitude to his work and was respected and admired by his colleagues.
Known for his vivacious personality and warm heart, Red was a diehard NASCAR fan. His love for the sport wasn’t merely passive; in his younger years, he was a local stock car driver, thrilling audiences with his skill and passion. This love for speed and competition was matched by his devotion to the University of Kentucky Basketball team.
Red’s marriage to Sharon was a testament to his loving and devoted nature. Their bond was one of mutual respect, love, and companionship, which they shared for more than four decades.
Above all, Red cherished the moments he spent with his family and friends. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and his home was always filled with laughter, love, and warmth. His grandchildren and great-grandson brought him immense joy, and he loved nothing more than being their beloved Papaw. His presence at family gatherings, holidays, and everyday moments will be deeply missed. In addition to his parents, Red was preceded in death by a brother, Thomas Winn and by his sister, Lovie Sears.
He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Sharon Dukes; his daughters, Julie Brown (Brad) of Providence and Chasidy Brooks of Whitesville; his brothers Estil Winn of Louisville and John Delk of Elkton. Papaw’s legacy will live on through his grandchildren, Derek Strader (Maggie), Miles Stiegler, Shayla Abney (Brennan), Kenny Brooks, and Alex Brown, as well as his great-grandson, Harrison Douglas Abney.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. Sunday November 5, 2023 at Muster Funeral Homes, Livermore Chapel. Burial will be in the Green River Memorial Gardens in McLean County. Friends may visit with Red’s family from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. Saturday and from 11:00 A.M. until 2:00 P.M. Sunday at Musters in Livermore.
The Harold Douglas ‘Red’ Dukes family requests that expressions of sympathy take the form of donations to Green River Memorial Gardens Fund; C/O Buck Creek Baptist Church; 3788 U.S. Highway 431 North; Calhoun, Kentucky 42327.
Red’s services will be streamed live on musterfuneralhomes.com at 2:00 P.M. Sunday.
Share your memories and photos of Red at musterfuneralhomes.com.