Kendra Dukes' Obituary
Kendra Kay Dukes, age 45, of Springfield, Missouri, died at 6:04am, Sunday, February 15, 2009 at Citizen’s Memorial Hospital in Bolivar after suffering from chronic illness half of her life. She was born July 11, 1963 in Wichita, Kansas. She was adopted at five days old by Melvin and Sheila Heubach who welcomed her with open arms. She was a lively child who charmed her Kindergarten teacher with her joyful dances, going on to be interested in music, learning to play piano, violin, mandolin and guitar. She enjoyed learning about her Cherokee heritage, doing dream catchers and other Indian type crafts. She was a master at doing cross stitch handwork in tiny stitches and also bead work. Unfortunately, the progression of her Rheumatoid Arthritis and chronic lung problems prevented her from doing this art work. She had read many books on Indian culture and researched her native ancestry. She was able to meet her biological Cherokee grandmother who told her about the “Trail of Tears” that brought the Cherokee Indians to Oklahoma. She did data entry work before becoming disabled. She maintained a positive spirit despite her health problems. She was always there to help friends in need, giving them encouragement. She was very devoted to her cat and four dogs treating them like her children. She is survived by her parents; Melvin and Sheila Heubach of Bolivar, her ex-husband and special friend; Paul Ross of Half Way, her biological mother; Marie Lawhead of Jay, OK., and Marie’s other children; Margo Lawhead, Brenda Wilson, Carl Dean Wilson, Pamela Sue Thomas, Melissa Kay Wilson of Jay, OK, many aunts, uncles, cousins and many special friends in Springfield, Branson and Bolivar, Missouri. A Funeral Service will be held at 2:00pm, Wednesday, February 18, 2009 at the Butler Funeral Home in Bolivar, Missouri with Reverend Bob Johnson of Perkins, OK. Officiating. There will be a visitation from 1:00-2:00pm prior to service time at the Funeral Home. Musical selections will be “My Life”, “Precious Lord” and “Amazing Grace” by Mark Johnson both playing the guitar and singing. The family suggests contributions in Kendra’s memory to “Going To The Dogs” c/o Butler Funeral Home, 407 E. Broadway, Bolivar, Missouri 65613. Friends and family may sign the guest book or send private condolences at www.butlerfuneralhome.com Return to top
What’s your fondest memory of Kendra?
What’s a lesson you learned from Kendra?
Share a story where Kendra's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Kendra you’ll never forget.
How did Kendra make you smile?