Dorothy “Dawn” Duke

Obituary For Dorothy “Dawn” Duke

Dorothy “Dawn” Duke, 86, of Jefferson, Georgia, entered into rest on Saturday, January 10, 2026.

Dawn was born on December 29, 1939, in Jefferson, Georgia, to Emma Kathleen (Couch) and Ralph Silman. She was a graduate of Jefferson High School and retired as a Ward Clerk after 30 years with BJC Medical Center. Dawn enjoyed reading, solving word puzzles, following Dragon and UGA sports, and most of all, spending time with her family. She was a devoted member of First Christian Church in Jefferson.

She is survived by her children, Melissa Duke of Pendergrass and Mark Duke (Amy) of Jefferson; four grandchildren, Corey Hetchler (Trent), Savannah Dooley and her boyfriend Tyler Grizzel, Caitlin Wilson (Christian), and Aiden Duke; along with a great-grandchild, Emersyn Dawn Grizzel.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her former husband, Hale Duke, and her sisters, Gail Roberts and Nell Stromberg.

A private memorial service and interment of cremated remains will be held at a later date.