Earthel Dukes was born in Barnwell, SC, May 4, 1955 to the late Clinton and Edna (Pressey) Dukes. He departed this life on December 12, 2023 at MUSC in Orangeburg, SC.

At a young age, he was employed as a woodworker (Puck Wood). Later in life he took on many different tasks, yard work being what he enjoyed the most. He was known for his jokes, trash talking, cooking, and taking care of his brothers until his health declined.

He is preceded in death by his father, (Clinton Dukes); mother, (Edna Pressey Dukes); brother, (Nathaniel Pressley).

He will be missed by all and his memory will forever linger in the hearts of all who have ever crossed his path. He leaves to cherish two sisters, Ruth Kinard of Blackville, SC and Effie (Nathaniel) Porter of Springfield, SC; three brothers (all of the home), Luther Dukes, Willie Lee Dukes and McKinley Dukes all of Blackville, SC; two nephews raised as brothers, Ronnie Pressley and Albert (Malissa) Pressley both of Blackville, SC; a close friend, Harold Lee Nicks and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.