Dolly Hudson Duke

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dolly Hudson Duke, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and cherished friend. Dolly went to be with the Lord peacefully on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at the age of 74. Born in Cullman, Alabama, on April 4, 1952, she was a beacon of warmth and kindness, touching the lives of all who knew her.

A resident of Guyton, GA, Dolly was known for her dedication and devotion to Jesus, family, and friends. She and her husband, Lamar, served in pastoral ministry together for over 40 years across multiple states, where Dolly always provided whatever support was needed, from playing the piano and organ to serving in the office and everything in between. She also deployed those office skills for years as a legal secretary. Her meticulous nature and commitment to excellence were evident in her professional life and personal passions alike.

Dolly found joy in spending time with her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She also enjoyed the gentle arts of cross-stitching, knitting, and playing the piano. She was a puzzle enthusiast and a spirited player of Chickenfoot, bringing fun and laughter to many game nights. All of this took place despite five decades of chronic pain without relief. To that end, Dolly was a constant example of how to embrace and display God’s love, grace, and joy no matter life’s circumstances.

Dolly was preceded in death by her loving husband of 49 years, Freddie Lamar Duke, her father, Thomas Jackson Hudson, her mother, Vera Spear Hudson, her dear grandson, Jonathan Witmer, her sisters Joyce Rhodes and Betty Morton, and her brother Jack Hudson.

She is survived by her loving children: daughter Cheri Witmer and her husband Eric, of Galloway, New Jersey, and son Tommy Duke and his wife Amber, of Guyton, GA, as well as her brothers Wayne Hudson (Sandy) of Orlando, Florida, and Earl Hudson (Susan) of Burlington, North Carolina. Her legacy lives on through her adored grandchildren, Christina Milza (Joey), Dylan Witmer (Allie), Savannah Groff (Adam), TJ Duke, and Koty Duke, and her cherished great-grandchildren, Gracie Milza, Andrew Milza, Jedediah Witmer, Isaac Groff, Everleigh Witmer, Maddox Witmer, and Aurora Groff.

To honor and celebrate Dolly's life, a visitation will be held on Sunday, May 3, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm at First Baptist Church of Garden City in Garden City, Georgia. Following the visitation, a Celebration of Life service will commence at 3:00 pm at First Baptist Church Garden City in Garden City, Georgia. Friends and family are invited to come together to reminisce, mourn, and celebrate the life of a truly remarkable woman.

Arrangements have been thoughtfully provided by Baker McCullough Funeral Home Garden City Chapel, located at 2794 West US Highway 80, Garden City, GA 31408. For additional information, please call (912) 964-2862 or visit www.bakermccullough.com.

Dolly's spirit will forever remain in our hearts, her presence in our lives a treasured gift.