He worked as an Engineer Tech for IDOT, retiring in 1991.
Duke was born on September 15, 1930, in Marion, KY, the son of Orben E. and Charlotte (Patmor) Taylor. He married Charlotte Ward on November 19, 1950, in Sturgis, KY. Together they spent 75 beautiful years married. Duke proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean War. He was a life-long member of the First Baptist Church in Dixon, serving as a Deacon, Sunday School Teacher, and Trustee. Duke also spent his time volunteering at places like Meals on Wheels, Home of Hope Wellness Center, and Habitat for Humanity. He will be remembered for his kind spirit and willingness to help those in need.
Duke is survived by his wife of 75 years, Charlotte Taylor; his two daughters, LeAnn (Ken) Angleton, Dana (Stephen) Grace, all of Dixon; 9 grandchildren, Nathan (Alysha) Reinhold, Elliot (Andraeya) Grace, Stephanie (Todd) Grace, Charity (Ryan) Reinhold, Michael (Mandy) Johnson, Donna (Greg) Lurry, Brian Reinhold, Stephanie Hanrahan, Jake Angleton; 16 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Duke was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Charles “Neil” (Alberta) Taylor.
A Visitation will be held from 10:00 am until the time of the Funeral Service at 11:30 am, at the First Baptist Church in Dixon on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, with Pastor Bunyan Cocar officiating. Entombment with Military Honors will be to follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Dixon. The family welcomes all to join for the luncheon back at the church following the services.
In Lieu of Flowers, memorials may be directed to First Baptist Church and/or Home of Hope Wellness Center in Dixon.
Arrangements were completed by Preston-Schilling Funeral Home at 1033 Franklin Grove Road in Dixon.
