Michael Ira Dukes entered into the presence of the Lord on October 11, 2026 at age 72 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer.

Michaell was born to Richard and Dorothy Dukes on July 4, 1954 in Asheville, NC. After graduating from West Henderson High School, he went on to attend Fruitland Bible Institute, earning an associate’s degree in religion and church Ministries. After graduation, he pursued a career as a Law Enforcement officer. During his career in law enforcement, he was also enlisted in the National Guard and served for 12 years. Later, the Lord called Michael into ministry. He obtained his bachelor’s degree from Covington Theological Seminary. He then spent time sharing God’s Love, ministering to others. Michael always had a servant’s heart and strived to serve his Lord and Savior. Michael was a member of Friendship Baptist Church in Saluda, NC.

In addition to his parents, Michael was preceded in death by a brother, Richard “Rick” Dukes, and his son, Joshua Dukes.

Surviving is his wife of 53 years, Linda Dukes; his son Jeremy Dukes (Rebecca); daughter-in-law, Keren Moore (Jacob); four grandchildren, Ariel Dukes, Jayce Dukes, Pyper Dukes, and Judah Moore; two sisters, Terri Tillman (Jim) and Sharon Boyd (Neil).

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at Friendship Baptist Church Cemetery in Saluda, NC officiated by Reverend Clifford Phillips.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Friendship Baptist, PO Box 505, Saluda, NC 28773.

At all other times family will be at the home.

"But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."

-Isaiah 40:31 KJV