Rita Lynnette Dukes, the third child in the union of the late Autly and Rayford Dukes II, was born September 30, 1964, in Richland, Georgia.

She attended Lincoln Heights Elementary School, Southside Jr. High School, and graduated from Monroe Comprehensive High School in 1982. A very perceptive young lady with a zeal for learning, Rita began her pursuit of higher education at Albany State University. She later graduated from
Albany Technical College in Business Management.

Rita's love for God and the church began at a very early age. In 1970, she was baptized and received the right hand of fellowship into the body of Christ at Mt. Zion Baptist Church where she availed herself in service for many years. Strongly sensing the call to evangelism, Rita engaged faithfully in studying the whole counsel of God and began ministering and teaching the gospel of Christ to all who lend an ear. She was licensed as an Evangelist in October 2014.

The anointing of God that was upon her life affected the lives of many others. She was a woman of faith who lived her conviction of service and exhorted everyone to trust and believe in God.

Evangelist Dukes' professional career as a licensed insurance agent spanned a period of more than 30 years. She shared a special bond with her clients, took pride in providing honest business advice, and guiding clients through life's changes and insurance needs. Family relationships were vital to her and a source of great joy and fellowship. She was a devoted mother who created a home atmosphere filled with the love of Christ; who taught her children the value of hard work; and was deeply involved her children's activities and endeavors. Friends and family visiting her home were always greeted with open arms as she shared life lessons and words of encouragement.

On September 17. 2021, Evangelist Dukes answered the Master's call to eternal rest and peace. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of being a part of her life.

Precious memories will forever be treasured by her loving children, Dwandolyn Malone, Michael Malone, and Danielle R. Malone; grandchildren, Aaliyah Daniels, Kam'Ron Daniels, Michael K. Malone, Richlyn Newberry, and Lauryn Newberry; siblings, Sylvia Dukes Carter, Krystal Dukes (Willie) Harris, Lynn Dukes, and Rayford Dukes, III; aunts, Ernestine Rembert Walton of Columbus, GA, Bessie Rembert of Cusseta, GA, Willie Beatrice Dukes of Albany, GA nieces and nephews; and a host of cousins, extended family, and friends.