James L. Dukes was born September 6th, 1940 in Conway, Arkansas to loving parents, James L. Dukes Sr. and Faye Dukes. From the very beginning, James was surrounded by strong family values that shaped the man he would become.

As a young man, James moved to Kansas City, Missouri, where he built a life rooted in hard work, love, and faith. It was there that he met and married his beloved wife, Mae Dukes. Together, they shared a devoted marriage and raised five beautiful children, creating a home filled with warmth, care, and togetherness.

James dedicated many years of faithful service to National By Products, where he worked as an operator. He was known for his strong work ethic, dependability, and quiet pride in providing for his family. Outside of work, James found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved being outdoors, cutting grass, tending to his garden, and enjoying the beauty of nature. Music brought him comfort and happiness, and its sound often filled his days.

James was a devoted Jehovah's Witness and lived his life guided by his faith. He was gentle, kind, and genuine, a truly down to earth man who treated everyone with respect. He was loved by all who knew him and will always be remembered as a good man who cherished his family and appreciated life's simplest blessings.

James was preceded in death by his parents, James and Faye Dukes, his brothers Cotis Dukes and John Dukes affectionately known as Tune, his sisters Shirley Dukes, Mary Dukes, and Thelma Dukes, and his beloved sons Mony Dukes and James Dukes Jr.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Mae Dukes of Kansas City, Missouri; his daughters Melbra Taylor, Lanise Taylor, and Angela McWilliams, all of Kansas City, Missouri; his brother Ray Dukes of Texas; his sisters Erma Dukes of Kansas City, Missouri, Helen Dukes of Arkansas, Brenda Dukes Nash of Hawaii, and Janice Nash of Kansas City, Missouri; seventeen grandchildren, thirty great grandchildren, three great great grandchildren, and a host of other relatives and dear friends.

James L. Dukes will be sorely missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His life, love, and legacy will live on through the many generations he leaves behind and in the hearts of all who loved him.