Maxine R.M. Dukes

December 19, 1935 - September 20, 2016

Maxine R. M. Dukes, 80, of Charlotte and formerly of New York City, died Tuesday, September 20, 2016, at the Novant Medical Center – Presbyterian Campus. Mother was born in Savannah, Georgia, on December 19, 1935, the daughter of Phillip and Estella Gardner Luke. She grew up there and married Robert Henry Dukes Sr. Together they had six children. Always caring for children, she was a foster mother for over 20 years and she retired from the New York Board of Education where she spent over 30 years with the food service program. Mother enjoyed music, especially jazz and R&B. With artists like James Brown, The Staples Singers (especially their song “I’ll Take You There”), Diana Ross and Gladys Knight, she had no shortage of music to listen to and appreciate. Always dressed to impress, she enjoyed fashion and was always ready to step out. Her favorite colors were pink and blue, she enjoyed art. making jewelry, playing bingo, and whether at home or at work, loved to cook. Most importantly, she loved the time spent with her family and friends. She was type of person who said hello to a stranger and goodbye to a friend. Known for her generosity, Maxine was affectionately known as “Ms. Dukes”, “Bootsy”, “Mama Dukes” and “Mother” to everyone. She will be sadly missed by all who knew her. Maxine is survived by her children:Constance E Henderson (Eugene) of Charlotte, NC, Robert Henry Dukes Jr, Carolyn Marie Dukes of New York, Phyllis Dukes of Wilmington, NC, Carl Anthony Dukes (Clarissa Carter) of Charlotte, NC, and Linda Anne Colon (Victor) of New York. She is also survived by grandchildren: Darae, Demetrius, Genesis, Cyda, Justin, Ashley, Andrell, Lionel, Raekwon, Kareem, twins Carl Jr and Latisha, and Shawn; and two sisters: Betty Hicks of Brooklyn, NY, and Barbara Thomas of Savannah, GA. Mother is further survived by 12 great grandchildren and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, her foster children, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Robert Henry Dukes Sr; her son, Robert Henry Dukes Jr; and a granddaughter, Shaquanna Vernell Dukes. A gathering to celebrate the life, love and blessing of Mother will be held on Saturday, October 1, 2016, at the Lowe-Neddo Funeral Home, 4715 Margaret Wallace Road, Matthews, NC 28105. Visitation will begin at 12 noon then at 1 pm, all present will join in the funeral home chapel for a service led by Mr. Ron Jones. Interment will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Charlotte. Mother loved Carolina blue and cotton candy pink. If so inclined, please join the family in wearing these colors to her services. . "We take special comfort in knowing that Mother meant the world to us and she will remain in our hearts forever." - The family Mother’s family has given the family of Lowe-Neddo Funeral Home the privilege of caring for them. Please take a moment to visit her tribute wall and share a memory, condolence or photo. You may also call 704-545-3553 for additional information.