Murray W. Duke, Jr.

Murray W. Duke, Jr., 56, of Valdosta, passed away Sunday, March 17, 2013, at the Miami Transplant Institute at Jackson Memorial Hospital, after a lengthy illness.

He was born May 22, 1956 in Tallassee, Alabama, and graduated from Lowndes High School, where he enjoyed performing in their award winning drama program. A graduate of Valdosta State University, Mr. Duke earned a Bachelor's Degree in Communications. For over thirty years he owned Murray Duke's Auto Mart, he was an astute businessman with many real estate investments.

Mr. Duke was a devout Christian and was of the Methodist faith. He thrived on his friendships and good business practices. Being a take charge person, he was known for his wit and generosity. He enjoyed the S.E.C. and was an avid Atlanta Falcons fan.

He is survived by his mother, Rosalie Duke of Valdosta; his fiancé, Susie McClellan of Lake Park; two sisters, Karen Postel and husband William, and Marcy Burns, all of Valdosta; two nieces, Tara Adams of Jacksonville, FL, and Mary Catherine Burns of Valdosta; one nephew, Gabriel Burns of Valdosta; Susie's daughters, Summer Hayes of Lake Park, and Danielle Hayes of Valdosta; Susie's son, Richard Hayes II of Springfield, MO; Susie's grandsons, Richard Hayes III of Springfield, MO, and he was "Papa" to Austin Stodghill of Lake Park; an aunt, Opal Fields and husband Ray of Melbourne, FL; many cousins; and numerous friends and business associates. He was preceded in death by his father, Murray W. Duke, Sr.

The Funeral Service for Mr. Duke will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, March 23, 2013, at the Chapel of Carson McLane Funeral Home with Rev. Sergio Reyes officiating. Interment will follow at Riverview Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Condolences may be conveyed to the family at www.mclanecares.com. Carson McLane Funeral Home, Valdosta.


Funeral Home:
Carson McLane Funeral Home
2215 North Patterson Street
Valdosta, GA
US 31602