John Deral Dukes

John Deral Dukes, 94, of Ashburn passed away Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at his residence.

Deral was born on April 12, 1931 in Ashburn to the late Otis Lee and Annabelle Hallman Dukes. He was a member of Sycamore Baptist Church where he served as a deacon and Sunday School teacher for many years. Deral was a farmer in his younger years. As he moved away from farming he began a career in public service. He played a vital role in starting the ambulance service in Turner County in the early 1970’s. He then moved on to work as the Assistant Civil Defense Director and later retired as the Civil Defense Director for the Georgia Emergency Management Agency. Deral also served as a Turner County Commissioner for several years. He loved to hunt and fish and would often share his catch as he loved to host fish frys for family and friends.

He is survived by his daughter, Deborah (Tom) Foster of Ashburn; grandchildren, Keri (Hardy) Knowlton of Tampa, Florida, Tommy Foster of Columbus, Sarah (Scottie) Jackson of Ashburn and Matthew (Shanna) Jackson of Japan. He is also survived by many great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife, Thurles Dukes and daughter, Susan Dukes.

Graveside funeral services will be held Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 11:00 AM in Lakeview Cemetery in Sycamore. The family will greet friends from 10:30 AM until the hour of services at the cemetery.