J. (Jeanne) McKenzie Duke

McKenzie was born in Rockville Centre, NY on March 14th, 1954, to Marion (Hines) and Robert Offenheiser; the oldest of 4 children. Growing up in Long Island, NY, she attended Holy Family High School, and The State University of New York – Albany, majoring in English Literature. After college she moved to New York City to pursue acting where she met James R. Duke. They were married in July of 1980. While married they travelled to and lived in many world destinations, including, Greece, Italy, Switzerland, and the Middle East. Upon their return from their travels they settled in Detroit, Michigan, where they welcomed their only child, Meaghan in 1983. McKenzie later attended The University of Detroit Law School, obtained her Juris Doctorate, graduating in 2005. She successfully practiced law until her passing and was most recently an attorney for Lakeshore Legal Aid.

McKenzie was known for her razor-sharp wit, and was passionate about art, literature, environmental issues, liberal politics, theater, and the law. McKenzie believed in equality and strongly advocated for ethical treatment and accessible resources for all in need. She was an aggressive and compassionate representative for her clients, and often found means of bartering for those clients unable to maintain their legal fees. Her sense of humor and compassionate nature were what drew friends and associates to her. Her light and laugh will be missed by all that knew her.

McKenzie was preceded in death by both her parents, Robert & Marion, and her brother Robert Jr.. She is survived by her siblings Mark and Carole, and by her daughter Meaghan.

Memorial Services will be held Sunday, December 18th, 2022 at A.H. Peters Funeral Home located at 20705 Mack Ave., Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236.

Visitation will be hosted from 12pm-2:30pm; Memorial Service to follow at 2:30pm.

Flowers are welcomed by the family and may be sent to the address above. Alternatively, donations may be made in her memory to the Detroit Public Library (https://www.dplfound.org/)