Earl "Buddy" Carlos Duke Jr.

Buddy was born on July 5, 1935, in Birmingham, Alabama. He graduated from Birmingham City High School and went on to build a life centered on hard work, loyalty, and love for his family. Buddy later married the love of his life, Mary Duke, with whom he shared many cherished years together.

He spent his career as a printing pressman with Quality Press. Outside of work, Buddy found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. He had a deep love for hunting and fishing, took pride in his coin collection, and had a special fondness for animals. Buddy also treasured time spent with his family and friends and never passed up the chance to enjoy a good meal, especially at his favorite spot, Sneaky Pete’s.

Buddy was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Duke.

He is survived by his sons, Jeff Duke and Tony Duke; his grandchildren, Allen Duke, Ashley Duke, and Stephanie Gronda; his great-grandchildren, Logan Duke, Caroline Duke, Hudson Duke, Corbin Duke, and Whitley Duke, Gracelyn Hollis, Emory Claire Hollis, and Lucy Gronda; his sister, Mary Katherine Stafford; and his close friends, Kenny and Cathy McKoy, Terri Knighten, and Connor, Abby, and Michael Hamer.

A visitation will be held on January 22, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at Southern Heritage Funeral Home with a graveside service to follow at 2:00 pm at Southern Heritage Cemetery.