Henry S. Dukes
Henry Scott Dukes, 73, of Hot Springs, Arkansas, departed this life on Monday, Oct. 12, 2026, at National Park Medical Center. He was born on March 20, 1953, in Auvergne, Arkansas, to Waldrof and Pearleather Dukes.
Henry was a graduate of Altheimer High School and continued his education by completing one year of study at Arkansas Agricultural, Mechanical & Normal College (Arkansas A.M.&N.), now known as the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, a historically Black college and university.
Henry proudly served his country in the United States Air Force and received an honorable discharge. Following his military service, he worked in the insurance industry for a period of time. However, a personal experience would ultimately lead him down a different career path. After encountering plumbing problems of his own and realizing the high cost of repairs, Henry decided to learn the trade himself. He attended Garland County Community College and obtained his Master Plumber License. He later earned his contractor's license and established Dukes Construction & Plumbing.
Henry was more than a businessman. He generously used his time, talents, resources and compassion to help others and make his community a better place to live. Whether through his work, lending a helping hand, or simply sharing a laugh, Henry left an impression on those fortunate enough to know him. He was also known as a part-time comedian, always ready with humor and a good story to brighten someone's day.
In his leisure time, Henry enjoyed playing his guitar, listening to the blues and playing cards. His personality, humor and wisdom could often be summed up in one of his favorite sayings:
"If a duck can pull a truck, hook it up!"
Henry was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Wonderful Allus, Waldrof Cleophus Jr., Melvin Wilbert, Donald Jeffero, Earl Edward, Curtiss Charles, James Edward and Patra Lea.
Henry leaves a lifetime of cherished memories with his faithful and unwavering spouse of 48 years, Deborah Dukes; his children, Heather (Mark) Dukes-Shaw, Stefoni Dukes and Delneta Parham (Leo); sisters, Mennie Brown and Helen Clay; brothers, Herman (Jane) Dukes, Robert Dukes, Willie C. (Alberteen) Dukes and Larry (Verna) Dukes; four grandchildren, Joycelyn Bullard, Darion Simon, Coleman "Tre" Harper III and Myles Shaw; four great-grandchildren; and a host of treasured nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and dear friends.
Henry's life was one of service, hard work, generosity, laughter and love. From serving his country to building a successful trade and using his abilities to help others, he lived a life that touched his family and community in countless ways. His humor, compassion, determination and unforgettable personality will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
A Celebration of Life honoring Henry S. Dukes will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026.
Visitation will begin at noon at Haven United Methodist Church, where Reverend Melvin Moss serves as pastor. Reverend Michael Woolfolk will officiate the service.
The Interment for Henry S. Dukes will take place at 1 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 9, 2026, at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery, located at 1501 West Maryland Ave., North Little Rock, AR 72120
Arrangements are entrusted to Carrigan Memorial Funeral Services.
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