Anetta M. Duke

With heavy hearts and cherished memories, we celebrate the life of Anetta M. Duke, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, devoted church member, mentor, businesswoman, and dear friend, who entered eternal rest on May 25, 2026, at the age of 89.Born in San Antonio, Texas, Anetta was the beloved daughter of the late Clinton and Anita Tucker. A proud Texan, she lived a life marked by faith, service, creativity, entrepreneurship, and unwavering love for her family and community.

Anetta was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved husband, Arthur Gene Duke Sr. Anetta met and married the love of her life, Arthur Duke, in 1957. Together they shared a loving and devoted union for 54 years until his passing on September 5, 2011. Their marriage was built on faith, hard work, dedication, and a shared vision for success.

Anetta M. Duke built a legacy through a diverse tapestry of careers. Her early professional life included contributing to a major piece of Texas History. When she was employed by Hemisfare San Antonio, she followed this by serving her community as a manager of a neighborhood Piggly Wiggly, all before she and her husband successfully launched their family-owned businesses.

As visionary entrepreneurs, Anetta and Arthur built several successful businesses that became well known in their community, including D&D Janitorial Services, D&D Gift Shop, and Duke & Duke Men’s Dress Hat Shop & Apparel, established in 1999 and proudly continuing to serve customers today. Through these ventures, they not only achieved success but also created opportunities for others and became respected leaders in the business community. In addition to being a business owner, she also attended St. Phillips College, where she studied to become a seamstress.

Anetta had a passion for fashion, decorating, and sewing and possessed a remarkable talent as a master seamstress. She was known for her extraordinary gift of being able to determine a man’s hat size without the use of a measuring tape—an ability that amazed customers and friends alike. She was truly a master of her craft.

Blessed with many God-given talents, Anetta generously shared her skills, wisdom, and knowledge with others. She mentored aspiring entrepreneurs and encouraged countless individuals to pursue their dreams. Through her leadership and guidance, many people went on to establish successful businesses of their own.

A devoted member of Bethel AME Church, Anetta faithfully served as an usher and found great joy in worship, fellowship, and service to others. Her faith was the foundation of her life. Anetta attended St. Peter Claver for twelve years; she never forgot how to faithfully recite the Rosary and maintained a deep reverence for God throughout her life.

Anetta was also active in her community and held membership in several organizations, including the Black Chamber of Commerce, Women-Owned Small Business, and the Family Service Club for Seniors. She believed in giving back and supporting the growth and success of others.
Together, Anetta and Arthur enjoyed entertaining guests, hosting family gatherings, and preparing meals for loved ones. People naturally gravitated toward them because of their warmth, generosity, and welcoming spirit. Anetta’s inviting smile could light up any room, and her presence brought comfort and joy to those around her. Whenever someone extended a kind gesture, she would warmly respond with her signature words:
“Thank you. God bless you.”

Above all, Anetta treasured her family. Her love, wisdom, strength, generosity, and unwavering support created a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come. She demonstrated selfless acts of kindness and compassion to everyone she encountered and touched countless lives through her faith, service, and example.

She leaves to cherish her precious memory her four loving children: Sherryl Shanklin, Carlette Dotson (Samuel), Arthur Duke Jr., and Sylvia Barnes (James); six grandchildren: Arthur Duke III, Courtney Shanklin Sr. (Jennifer), Brittany Dotson-Walker (Khalid), Jasmine Barnes, Tiera Barnes, and Samaria Duke; and fourteen great-grandchildren: Arlycia Alfred, Artiana Alfred, Mariah Shanklin, Jamaree Walker, Courtney Shanklin Jr., Jabron Walker, Jamier Barnes-Franklin, Jordan Walker, Ja’Corey Franklin, Armani Alfred, Mase’Lynn Taylor, Mascio Taylor III, Aiez Pollard, Ariyah Alfred, and Ar’Joi Alfred and great-great granddaughter, Aramya Rover. She also leaves behind numerous relatives, friends, church members, business associates, and loved ones who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.

Though she is no longer with us in body, her legacy of faith, love, perseverance, entrepreneurship, mentorship, and compassion will continue to live on through all who knew and loved her.

“Her children arise and call her blessed.”
Proverbs 31:28.

She was the fitting reflection of dignity, grace and strength which she carried throughout her life. Anetta M. Duke will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.