Dillard Leon Duke, 79, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 27, 2025, surrounded by family in Lee's Summit, MO.

Dillard was born on February 5, 1945, to Colter Duke and Julia Mae (Elliot Woods) Duke. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy for 20 years and retired as an E7. In his service with the US Navy, he traveled the world earning many ribbons, service awards, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (twice), National Defense Service Medal and the service award he talked about often - Antarctica Service Medal. After his military service, he dedicated 25 years to the Department of Defense, retiring as Head Chef of the Mess Hall at Whiteman Air Force Base, MO in 2006.

Duke had a love for fishing and a gift for making people laugh. He was known for his warmth, sense of humor, and the ease with which he made others feel comfortable. People loved him not only for his quick wit but also for his genuine kindness and good heart. He would do just about anything for everyone.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 40 years, Leila Agamata Hormillo Duke; his children, Irene Ochoa (Mike) of California, Dillard Duke Jr. (Kim) of Leeton, MO, and Sheila Meloy (Michael) of Warrensburg, MO; grandchildren, Richard Zarate (Angela) of California, Michael Zarate (Samantha) of Utah, Andrew Meloy and Matthew Meloy of Warrensburg; and great-grandchildren, Elyse Zarate, Madeline Zarate, Michelle Zarate, Ezekiel Zarate, and Kai Zarate. He was preceded in death by his parents and his five siblings: Dona Burns, Waneta Duke, Willard Duke, Eddie Wayne Duke, and Georgia Moburg.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at 6:00 PM at Sweeney-Phillips & Holdren Funeral Home in Warrensburg, MO. Visitation will begin at 5:00 PM. A graveside service with Military Honors will follow on Friday, February 7, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Sunset Hill Cemetery in Warrensburg, MO.

Duke's laughter and love will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Heaven gained a good man who lived life and loved his family to its fullest measure!