Howard Jerome Dukes was born August 19, 1962, in Elloree, South Carolina to Rose Ann Dukes. He entered into eternal rest on January 26, 2022, after an extended illness, at the Fordham Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Bronx, NY.

Howard was reared in the home of his grandparents, Martin and Mattie Mae Dukes. At an early age he joined Shiloh AME Church. He graduated Elloree High in 1980. Howard truly loved his family especially his nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was like a father to some and uncle to most. Howard loved to cook & clean. After moving to NY, they called him "Certified" because of his cooking. He loved sports especially Basketball. His favorite TV show was the "Dukes of Hazard". He was known as "Bo Duke" in South Carolina. Howard loved people and never met a stranger.

Howard was preceded in death by his grandparents and and his brother Alferd Dukes.

Howard leaves to cherish memories: his mother Rose Ann Dukes of Bronx Ny; sister: Sandra (Freddie) Pauling of Elloree, SC; Kevin (Madelyn) Dukes Brooklyn NY Four aunts; Willie M. Simmons and Nancella Huggins (loving Caregiver) of the Bronx NY, Ida Dukes and Evan Dukes of Elloree, SC. Step grandson Chase White of NY whom he truly loved. and host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Special friends: Isiah Williams, Reggie Keitt, Joseph Funderburg, Dave Pauling, and Steve Pauling.