Wanda Sue Duke, age 78, of Dalton, GA., finished her earthly race and peacefully passed on July 4, 2026. Born on November 8, 1947, in Ringgold, GA. Wanda spent her entire life in the community she loved, faithfully serving God, her family, and those around her.

Wanda shared a beautiful marriage of 60 years with her devoted husband, whose love and partnership were a testament to God's faithfulness. Together, they built a home that became a place of warmth, comfort, and unconditional love for everyone who entered. 

She is survived by her beloved husband, Daniel Duke; cherished daughter and son-in -law, Carrie and Brian Bishop; sister, Tammy Childers; grandchildren, Chloe Bishop, Audrey and Kaige Dodson, Braxton Hawkins, Garrett Hawkins,  Beau Hawkins, Sophia and Austin Morgan; and her treasured great-granddaughters, Keziah Dodson and Zemirah Dodson.

She was preceded in death by her precious daughter, Laura Hawkins; her father, Howard Childers Jr.; her mother, Lillie Mae Childers; and her grandmother, Minnie Barrett.

Those who knew Wanda knew they had experienced something rare. She possessed the quiet strength of a woman whose life was firmly rooted in Christ. Her faith was not reserved for Sunday mornings; it was woven into every meal she prepared, every prayer she whispered, every hand she held, and every person she welcomed into her home.

Her family was God's greatest earthly blessing. She loved with her whole heart and found her deepest joy in caring for those around her. Her kitchen was more than a place where meals were made; it was where memories were created, burdens were shared, laughter echoed, and love was served as generously as the food on her table. No one crossed her doorstep as a stranger, and no one ever left without feeling seen, cherished, and cared for.  She had a remarkable way of making every person believe they belonged.

She found beauty in the simple gifts God provided. Whether tending her garden, preserving the harvest through canning, preparing meals from scratch, or sharing jars from the pantry with neighbors and friends, Wanda found joy in giving. She believed that serving others was one of the purest expressions of god's love, and she lived that belief every day. 

Her life was not measured by wealth or recognition, but by the immeasurable number of lives she has touched. She modeled unwavering faith, sacrificial love, gracious hospitality, and humble service. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren carry with them not only cherished memories but a legacy of how to love God, love people, and make a house feel like home.

To her Family, she was their safe place. To her friends, she was a faithful encourager. To all who knew her, she was an example of Proverbs 31 lived out with grace and authenticity. She truly was a woman whose worth was far above rubies.

"Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her... Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised".-- Proverbs 31:28,30

Mama, thank you for showing us what it means to love without reservation, to serve without seeking recognition, and to trust God through every season. We will miss your hugs, your laughter, your table, and the way you taught us. We love you always.