Jimmie Clay Duke

Jim was born in Detroit, MI on 12/19/1935, and passed away on 10/19/2026 in Chino, CA.

As a child in Detroit, he recalled playing hockey in his yard and it being very cold. His family later moved to Long Beach, California in 1946. They settled eventually in Compton, where he graduated from Compton High School in 1954. He went to college at Cal Baptist in Covina, and then was drafted into the US Army, serving in Germany 1956-58.

Upon returning from the service, he married Delores Arlene Thomas in November 1958. They made their home in Pomona, moving to Covina in 1963. During their many years in Covina, Jim and Arlene were active in the First Baptist Church and had many friends there. They also were active in various youth and school activities. Summer meant extended camping/RV trips exploring the western states. Trout fishing was usually a large part of these trips.

In 1962, Jim joined the LAPD where he worked until retiring in 1988 as Lieutenant-2 and Commanding Officer of Hollenbeck Detectives. While working, he was able to complete his degree in Public Administration from Pepperdine University.

In 1990, they relocated to Keizer, OR and lived there for 11 years enjoying the scenic Northwest, fresh air and of course more fishing trips. During this time. Jim and Arlene spent a great deal of time traveling the United States in their RV, fishing and exploring new places. Jim enjoyed sharing stories of their travels to 49 states, missing only Alaska. They returned to California in 2001, residing in Menifee for 25 years before recently settling in Rancho Cucamonga.

Jim is survived by his wife of 68 years, Arlene, son Steve and daughter-in-law Allison, daughter Cyndee (Duke) Ocon and son-in-law Sam Ocon, along with grandchildren; Jenessa Ocon, Miles Ocon, and Alyssa (Duke) Cate and her husband Dominick.

Jim will be remembered for his kind nature, effective leadership, love for God and family, and for his great sense of humor.

In Lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to the Los Angeles Police Relief Association Fund. Please visit the website via https://lapra.org/lapraf/ways-to-donate/

A Graveside Service will be held at Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Boulevard, Riverside, CA 92518, on November 16, 2026, at 2:30 PM