Dukes
WAYCROSS — Cora Carlene Gunn Dukes, 67, of Waycross, passed away peacefully in her sleep Wednesday, December 31, 2025 following an extended illness.
She was born November 19, 1958, to Rayford and Est elle Meeks Gunn.
A faithful believer in Jesus Christ, Mrs. Dukes was a dedicated member of Crossview Church of God of Prophecy. Multiple generations of the congregation have been blessed by her musical talents as she led worship with numerous ensembles and toured area churches with The Harvesters singing group. She passed on her love for music to her family and friends.
Ms. Dukes has served on various committees over the years, including the church advisory board. She most recently applied her expertise to the role of church treasurer.
Her professional life was a mirror of her heart for service. Mrs. Dukes was employed by the State of Georgia for 34 years, where she served her community with immense pride. She was a tireless advocate for the most vulnerable populations, providing oversight for therapeutic foster care and operating a group home for teenaged girls. Her work with the Satilla Community Service Board allowed her to champion the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities.
Even after retiring from the state in 2013, her mission did not end. Mrs. Dukes returned to work as a volunteer coordinator with CASA, continuing her advocacy for children within the foster care system. She lived her life with a selfless generosity, always the first to offer help and volunteer her time to anyone in need.
Outside of her ministry to others, Mrs. Dukes was a passionate sports fan, traveling long distances to show her support for her favorite teams. On Friday nights, you could find her cheering on her Ware County High School Gators, and on Saturdays, she was a devoted University of Georgia Bulldogs fan. Over the years, she traveled to many UGA and Ware County Gators games, making cherished memories on the road. Though she will be missed in the stands, her family finds comfort knowing she is now cheering from the best seat in the house.
To her five grandchildren, she was their doting “Mimi,” a role she embraced with all her heart. Whether she was on a road trip adventure, jumping on roller coasters with the kids, or simply spending time at home, her family was her greatest pride and joy.
She is survived by her devoted husband of 48 years, Graham Dukes, Jr. Her legacy lives on through her children, Brandon Dukes (Tricia) of Smyrna, Ga., Brittany Peacock (Caleb), and Brent Dukes (Breanna), all of Waycross; grandchildren, Baylor Peacock, Kyndal Dukes, Cooper Peacock, Benson Dukes, and Alliana Dukes.
She is also survived by her siblings, Ernie Gunn (Dorothy) of Conyers, Ga., Bonnie Gunn (Jim) of Smyrna, and Fay Shepherd (Mark) of Rutledge, Ga. She leaves behind her sisters-in-law, Maudlene Dukes of Waycross, Elaine Sansberry (Johnny) of Lake Park, Ga., Missy Gunn of Douglas, and Lisa Dukes of Douglasville, Ga.; her brother-in-law, Jonathan Dukes (Mary) of Cleveland, Tenn; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
Beyond her family, Mrs. Dukes leaves behind a wide circle of cherished friends from her years at Crossview Church, her long career with the state, and her community involvement. She held a particularly special bond with her dear friends, The Herseys and the “YaYas,” whose friendship and laughter were a constant light in her life.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Rayford and Estelle Meeks Gunn; her parents-in-law, Graham and Joyce Dukes, Sr.; her siblings, Larry Gunn, Steve Gunn, and Bobby Gunn; her sisterin- law, Gayle Gunn; and her brother-in-law, Glenn Dukes.
A funeral service was held January 3 at Crossview Church of God of Prophecy. Burial followed in Greenlawn Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Ware County Schools Special Needs Fund, 1301 Bailey Street, Waycross, 31501.
Sympathy may be expressed by signing online at www.milesodumfuneralhome. com.
