Russell Lamar Duke

Russell Lamar Duke 0f Oakwood, GA, age 81, passed away on Sunday April 28th, 2024 at his residence surrounded by his family following an extended battle with colon cancer. He was an extremely generous beloving father and husband who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.  The family takes comfort in knowing that Lamar is free from pain and at peace with the Lord.

Lamar was born on July 23rd, 1942 in Clayton County, GA to parents John and Leoah Duke. He went on to attend Gainesville College majoring in accounting and retired from the United States Army with 24 years of service to his country and later retired from General Motors Corporation after more than 30 years of devoted work. Lamar lived in Hall County most of his adult life after returning from foreign military service.

Lamar was a devoted father to two sons {Russell and Brent} and was married to the love of his life, Belinda for 51 years. He loved spending time with his children, sharing stories, doing do it yourself projects, watching the Braves and was a very active person. He was always there to offer guidance, support, and encouragement, no matter what challenges they faced. He was a man of his word and his word and handshake were an irrevocable bond.  Lamar had a servant heart and was always concerned with helping others and doing for other people his entire life.

In his free time, Lamar enjoyed working in the yard, fishing and sports, and was always eager to share his knowledge and enthusiasm with others. Lamar attended First Baptist Oakwood Church for more than 10 years and was a life time Christian.  Previously, Lamar was a long-time member of Woodlawn Baptist Church in Gainesville, GA.

Lamar is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Belinda his children, Russell Ashley Duke and Brenton Alan Duke and wife Heather, his precious granddaughter Blakeleigh Charleston Duke and sister Laverne Duke Funderburk. He is survived by many nephews and nieces who loved and adored him. Lamar was preceded in death by his parents, John and Leoah Duke, siblings, Nell Landress, Carl Duke, Eugene Duke and James Duke. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him.

A funeral service will be held for family and close friends at 2:00 P.M. Friday, May 3, 2024 at Memorial Park South Chapel with interment following at Memorial Park South Cemetery.  Services will be officiated by Pastor Steve Fenlon. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude’s Children Hospital, www.stjude.org, in memory of Lamar Duke.

The family would like to thank Georgia Hospice Care for their care and support to Lamar and the family.

Memorial Park South Funeral Home, 4121 Falcon Parkway, Flowery Branch, Georgia is in charge of arrangements.  Send on-line condolences to www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com.