James Van Duke

1932-2023

Vestavia Hills, Alabama - James Van Duke, 91, passed away peacefully on October 4, 2023, in Vestavia Hills, Alabama. Born on July 7, 1932, in Pepperell Village, James was a hardworking individual who dedicated his life to his passions and people. He loved to have fun.

James was a man of many talents and interests. He worked at Fredericks Funeral Home to support his education at Auburn University, where he excelled. His true passion, however, lay in building and construction. In his twenties, he built his first small commercial strip mall, which still stands as a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and craftsmanship. James was also a writer, boater, traveler, fisherman, and he loved to sing. He enjoyed camping and cherished the time he spent supporting his beloved Auburn football team, proudly shouting "War Eagle!"

James is survived by his daughters, Toni Branyon Smucker, Elizabeth Lynn Hardison, and Joanie Graham (Allen). His 3 grandchildren, Brittany Anne Branyon (Richard Bradshaw), Eryn Cuniff (Joel), and Amber Skufa (Donnie), as well as his 6 great-grandchildren, Jude Barrett Cole, Magnolia Ruth Bradshaw, Charlotte Skufa, Graham Skufa, James Cuniff and Jack Cuniff. Nieces, Pamela Hudman, Cynthia Landry (Michael), Sonya Green (Terry), Nephews, Andy Hudman (Karen), Joe McAdory (Kathy), Cameron Tarrh (Eryn) Chandler Tarrh

James was preceded in death by his Parents, Pearlie Mae Duke and William Owen Duke. Son-in-law,

Phillip John Smucker, Sisters, Nella Mae Acton, Elizabeth Boddie, Betty Jo McAdory. Brother, Jack Gross. Nieces, Billie Hudman and Jackie Tarrh.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Friday, October 6, 2023, at Rose Hill Cemetery in Tallassee, Alabama, 36078. Friends and family are invited to attend and pay their final respects to James.

For the past 15 years he has called Town Village Assisted Living in Vestavia Hills, Alabama home. They have been family and will hold a celebration of life at an upcoming date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pepperell Baptist Church, located at 2702 Second Ave. Opelika, Alabama 36801. Contributions will honor James's memory and support the church's important work. For more information, please contact Pepperell Baptist Church at 334-745-3108.

James will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His legacy as a hardworking entrepreneur, father, and devoted friend will live on in the hearts of those he touched.

Frederick-Dean funeral home & crematory is directing.