Dr. Billy Wayne Duke

In Loving Memory of Dr. Wayne Duke

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. Wayne Duke, a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, great grandfather, and cherished member of our community. Wayne peacefully departed this world on the 14th of October, 2023, at his home in Arlington, Texas, surrounded by his beloved family. He was 85 years old.

Born on the 4th of January, 1938, in Shangaloo, Louisiana, Wayne spent his formative years in Springhill, where he graduated from Springhill High School. Fueled by his passion for education, he pursued higher learning at Louisiana Tech University, obtaining a Bachelor’s degree. Wayne continued his education and went on to earn a Master’s degree at Louisiana Tech and a doctorate from the University of Missouri, setting the stage for his remarkable career in higher education administration.

In 1971, Wayne’s journey led him to the University of Texas at Arlington, where he served as the Dean of Student Life and Vice President of Student Affairs, making a profound impact on countless students’ lives for over three decades. As a staunch advocate for student success, he dedicated his life to nurturing the growth and development of young minds. He was a founding member of the Council of Student Services Vice Presidents, a long time member of the North Texas Higher Education Authority, avid supporter of the UTA Movin’ Mavs Wheelchair Basketball Team, received The Distinguised Service Award from the Texas Association of Colleges and University Student Personnel Administration and served on the Downtown Arlington Development Committee. He lead the way to creating a university that could better serve UTA handicapped students.

Beyond his professional achievements, Wayne was a man of many passions. He was an active member of the Resurrection Global Methodist Church, where he found solace and shared his faith with others. Wayne also selflessly served as a Stephen Minister, providing guidance and support to those in need, always putting others before himself.

An avid outdoorsman, Wayne found joy in hunting and fishing, often embarking on memorable adventures to Canada, Alaska, and the Amazon. With each expedition, he created lasting memories and reveled in the beauty of nature’s wonders. Wayne was also an ardent sports enthusiast, cheering on his favorite teams in soccer, baseball, and football. Whether on the field or in the stands, he exuded a vibrant energy and unwavering support for his teams.

Family meant the world to Wayne, and his unconditional love for his wife, Judy, was evident in every aspect of their remarkable 51-year marriage. They were blessed with three daughters, Denise Ludlow, Angela Barakat, and Amy Duke. Wayne cherished his role as a father and reveled in watching his children grow into remarkable individuals. His legacy lives on through his adoring grandchildren, Brittany Barakat, Jenn Evans, Blake & Danna Barakat, Tyler Ludlow, Callie Ludlow, Carter Middleton, and his great granddaughter, Mia Barakat.

Wayne Duke was a compassionate and generous soul, always ready to lend a helping hand and offer words of wisdom. His patience, intuitive nature, and contagious smile brightened the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. A simple man who found contentment in life’s simple pleasures, Wayne leaves behind a void that will be felt deeply by his family and friends.

As we come together to mourn our loss and celebrate a life well-lived, funeral services and ceremonies will be held to honor Wayne’s memory. Family, friends, and those whose lives were touched by Wayne are invited to join us in sharing stories and reminiscing on his incredible journey.

In honor of his wishes, Wayne will be laid to rest through cremation. A memorial service will take place at Wade Funeral Home and Crematory on Friday, the 27th of October, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. The funeral home is located at 4140 W. Pioneer Pkwy., Arlington, TX 76013. A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, the 12th of November, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at the Arlington Woman’s Club located at 1515 W. Abram Street, Arlington, Texas, 76013.

As a testament to his lifelong dedication to education, the Duke family kindly requests memorial donations be made to the Wayne Duke Student Leadership Scholarship Fund established in Wayne’s name at the University of Texas at Arlington https://www.uta.edu/student-affairs/involvement-and-engagement/student-recognition/outstanding-student-leader-awards.

Wayne Duke was a remarkable man whose impact on this world will resound through the lives he touched. He will forever be missed, and his memory cherished. May he rest in eternal peace.