Alexander "Dukes" Dukes, Jr.

He was preceded in death by the love of his life, Jerry Fitts Dukes; his parents, Bettie Lou and Alexander Dukes Sr.; his sisters, Gladys and Bernice; and his brothers, Mitchell and Charles Dukes. He exchanged this life for eternal life on October 22, 2020, at his home.

Alexander, known affectionately to everyone as “Dukes,” was a 1963 graduate of Central High School where he was the drum major for the Mighty Wildcats Band from 1961-1963. Everyone who knew about Alexander Dukes and his electrifying dance moves looked forward to game night at Hartwell Field. After high school, Dukes and Jerry headed to the bright lights of New York City in pursuit of their dreams.

Dukes’ temporary job turned into employment recruiter and assistant terminal manager for a large retail store. He also drove a Yellow Cab all around New York City.

The growing Dukes family returned to Mobile, Alabama in 1972.

Alexander Dukes’ drive and commitment was a defining characteristic. He worked as a sales representative for Smith’s Bakery Sunbeam, Inc., for 35 years, and was known by all as “The Bread Man.” I am the Bread Man and I Roll in Dough was his motto. Not only did he have his motto, but in introducing himself he would always say his catchphrase, "Hello, I am Alexander Faille wishes’ Dukes, Jr.” On August 31, 2020, after 11 years of service, he retired from the Alabama Department of Environmental Management.

The purpose of Dukes’ drive and commitment to work was to provide for his family and friends. Dukes truly loved his wife and his family. He attended every sporting event and every dance recital of his children and grandchildren. He loved their family vacations and outings as well as their very regular family gatherings. The home on Bunche Road always had an open-door policy and every visitor was welcomed by Dukes. He loved having company and loved sitting around laughing and talking, making sure everyone had a good time - even if it meant a solo performance at Wild Things parties. In conversation with Dukes, whether you asked for it or not, you would always get the truth. He was always willing to help anyone, family, friends, or strangers; all you had to do was ask. Without question, everyone sitting here has their own Dukes memorable story.

Dukes was baptized at Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church and later became a member of St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church.

Dukes leaves to cherish his memories, one devoted son, Alexander (Donna) Dukes III; three devoted daughters: Vida (Clarence) Robinson, Jada (Ron Smith) Dukes, and Lelia Bryant all of Mobile, AL; seven grandchildren: Justin and Bria Robinson, Mikhaela Pruitt, Dakarai Smith, Alexis, Adrienne, and Ashley Bryant; one loving sister, Lavern Purnell of Mobile, AL; and a devoted brother, Oscar Dukes of Mobile, AL. He also leaves a host of nieces and nephews to cherish his memory.

Visitation for Dukes will be held at Pine Crest Funeral Home from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Tuesday, October 27, 2020. There will also be a viewing time at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. on Wednesday, October 28, 2020, with a Mass of Christian Burial immediately following. Interment will be in Pine Crest Cemetery on Dauphin Island Parkway.