November 21, 1952 – January 15, 2023
Dr. John Thomas Duke passed away on January 15, 2023. He was born on November 21, 1952, to Billie Joe and Betty Duke in Dallas, Texas.
Growing up in Hollywood, AR., he developed a love of the area's natural beauty and rich history.
John pursued a degree in teaching from Henderson State in Arkadelphia, AR., his Masters from Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, LA., and his Ph.D. in history from Texas A&M University with a minor in archaeology.
While working on his dissertation, John also worked with the Arkansas Preservation Society to have historic landmarks and buildings placed on the National Registry.
He moved to the Friendswood area in 1980 to begin a 38-year teaching career at Alvin Community College, where he served as Division Chair of Social Sciences.
John's deep love of nature, learning, and his children never dwindled. He spent countless hours with his sons walking the forests of Arkansas and fishing at Surfside and Rockport.
He was preceded by his parents Betty and Billie Joe Duke and his eldest son John Aaron.
He is survived by his son Joey; stepson Nathan; sister Sharon; and his brothers, Joe and Jack.
Condolences may be sent to the family in care of Jeter Memorial Funeral Home at www.jeterfuneralhome.com.
3 thoughts on “Dr. John Thomas Duke”
Dear family, I am so saddened to hear about the passing of my dear friend and coworker John. You know how beloved by his students, but I have to remind you how much he was loved and respected by all of us who taught with him. His great since of humor and kindness will surely be missed. We spent lots of time together on campus and off, especially when we went to faculty events and state conferences. There was a group of teachers from ACC who always hung out together like family. Although we haven’t seen each other much since I retired, I will miss him greatly! God bless your family.
I will keep your family in my prayers. I worked with John for many years before he retired and whenever I saw him he was quick to say hi and smile. He was wonderful to work with and his students loved taking his classes. I pray your good memories give you strength and comfort during this time of sorrow.
John was part of the committee that hired me to work at ACC and I was his colleague in his final years of instruction. He was always a kind gentleman and I was very sad to hear of his passing. My deepest condolences to those who loved him.