Mary Evonn Dukes

MARY EVONE DUKES 
DECEMBER 7, 1958 - APRIL 15, 2025 

Mary Evone Dukes, age 66, of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, passed away on April 15, 2025, at Fort Walton Beach Medical Center. Mary was born on December 7, 1958, to Arthur L. Shepherd and Peggy L. Shepherd 

Mary was a proud graduate of Choctawhatchee High School. She began her career at Fort Walton Beach Medical Center after graduation. 

In 1979, she met and married her loving husband Joseph who was a member of the US Army. Mary and Joe were stationed in Fayetteville where their first child, Joseph Jr was born in 1980. In 1982, they welcomed their second child Latisha in Fort Walton Beach. After separating from the army in 1986, they relocated to Fort Lauderdale. In 1996, they moved back to Fort Walton Beach to be close to Mary’s family. In 2005, their hearts grew fuller with the birth of their granddaughter Atiana, whom Mary adored. 

Mary found work in the Walmart bakery in Destin, Florida were she remained for 25 years. She was known for her unwavering dedication, often arriving extra early to ensure she was on time. Her professionalism and pride in her work were evident to all who knew her. 

Mary loved to read and write, but her true joy was found in the kitchen. She loved to cook and found fulfillment in preparing hearty meals for her family, always making sure everyone had more than enough to eat. 

Mary is survived by her husband, Joseph Dukes of Fort Walton Beach, son, Joseph T. Dukes of Fort Walton Beach, daughter, Latisha S. Dukes of Fort Walton, granddaughter, Atiana A. Dukes of Fort Walton Beach. She also leaves behind her mother, Peggy L Shepherd, brothers, Steven Shepherd (Bobbie), Mac Shepherd, Jerry Shepherd (Wanda); sisters, Delores Bass (James), Deborah White (Kenny), Dot Paden (Wayne), JoAnn Reynolds and Shawn Kunamaeng; and one paternal aunt, Lillie Mae Fowler (James), mother-in-law, Thelma Dukes of Fort Lauderdale, brother-in-law Ronald Dukes (Cassandra), sisters-in-law, Gloria Dukes, Ellen Hankerson, Paulette Dukes and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and friends. 

She was preceded in death by her father, Arthur L. Shepherd and baby sister, Etta G. Phillips, sister-in-law, Patricia Dukes, several aunts and uncles; and special uncle Dave. 

Mary will be forever missed by her beloved husband, children, granddaughter and extended family and friends. Her loving spirit, kind heart, and unwavering dedication will never be forgotten.
 

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