Virgil Lee Hutchinson

Virgil “Duke” Lee Hutchinson, 78, entered into rest on Tuesday, August 18, 2026.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Emma (Baker) Hutchinson; his daughter, Shannon Hutchinson McKune; his sisters, Pam Hutchinson and Sherry Hutchinson; and his best friend and beloved dog, Rusty.

Duke was an active speaker with Alcoholics Anonymous and was passionate about helping others. He was also a talented athlete, playing basketball at Fairdale High School and Transylvania University. Duke was an avid sports fan and a true horse racing fanatic. He loved following the races and sports, and his weekly lunch trips with the guys, which he always looked forward to.

If there was one word to describe Virgil, it would be “present.” He was always there for the people he loved. To his grandchildren, he was known as “Peeps” or “Peepaw,” and he could almost always be found on the sidelines at their games, or in the stands cheering them on. He never missed an opportunity to support his family and take pride in the people they were becoming.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his daughter, Tonya Welty (John); grandchildren, Cameron McKune (Hailey), Katelyn McKune (Dylan), Kennedy Welty, Olivia Welty, and Emery Welty; along with his nieces, cousins, and many other family members and friends who loved him dearly.

Duke’s presence, his stories, his passion for sports and racing, and most of all, his unwavering love and support for his family will be deeply missed. Though he is no longer with us, the memories he created and the lives he touched will carry his memory forward.

Cremation was chosen. Schoppenhorst Funeral Home at Fairdale was entrusted with the arrangements for the Hutchinson family. Virgil “Duke” Lee Hutchinson will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.