Shirley June Duke

     Shirley June Robison Duke, age 89, of Rocky Point passed away Thursday, July 25, 2024, at her home surrounded by her loving family.

     She was born June 22, 1935, in Texas, the daughter of Gaston Robison and Ima Dern Robison. In addition to her parents, Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, William Cordie Duke and siblings, James Robison, Jeaneane Parker, DonEd Robison and Kenneth Robison.

     Shirley is survived by her beloved children, Lyndon Bradley Duke (Jana), Keri Cathleen Duke, Susan Duke Rooks (Jimmy), and Russell Dean Duke (Irene); grandchildren, Nathan Duke (Danielle), Samantha Duke, Joshua Rooks, Hanna Huertas (Luke) and Kristen Duke; great grandchild, Robert Jordan; sisters in law, Audrene Robison and Sherry Robison, Vivian McKenzie, and Bobbie Duke; brother-in-law, Vance Duke (Chris), and many nieces and nephews and extended family.   

     Shirley graduated from Lubbock High School in Lubbock, Texas in 1953. She attended one year at Texas Tech. After high school, Shirley married her late husband of 61 years, Bill, had four children and went to work at Southwest Missouri State University. Her husband had completed his education at Southwest Missouri State and that encouraged and motivated Shirley to continue her education there as well, graduating at the proud age of 49. She retired from SMSU after 28 years – 18 of those spent as an Executive Secretary for Bernice Warren, Dean of Humanities and Public Affairs. Three of her children graduated from SMSU and one from Kansas State University, Shirley was always so proud to tell friends of her children’s accomplishments.

     After retiring, Bill and Shirley traveled to all 50 states, Canada, and several countries in Europe. Shirley expressed at the age of 89, with 61 wonderful years of marriage, four children and five grandchildren, she felt she had a life full of happiness and love.

     Services will be held at a later date in Springfield, MO.

     Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting Tribute Wall.

     A service of Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel.

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