Harry Hocker Dukes III passed away peacefully on May 31, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of service, leadership, generosity, and devotion to his family and community.

Born to Harry Hocker Dukes Jr. and Mabel Holt Dukes, Harry built a life marked by hard work, integrity, and a deep commitment to helping others. He graduated from Lord Baltimore and then the University of Delaware with a degree in Animal and Poultry Science, beginning a distinguished career in the poultry industry that would span decades and positively impact countless lives across the Delmarva Peninsula.

On May 9, 1969, Harry married the love of his life, Gwendolyn Hudson Dukes. Together they shared nearly 56 years of marriage, building a loving family and creating a lifetime of cherished memories.

Harry proudly served his country as a helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War. He felt that his time in Vietnam was one of his greatest learning experiences. The values of service and dedication that guided his military career continued throughout his life as he gave generously of his time, talents, and resources to his community.

A respected leader in both business and civic affairs, Harry worked for Showell Farms and Shore Best Poultry before fulfilling his entrepreneurial vision by founding Eastern Shore Poultry in 1988, where he served as owner and operator. He worked hard to create a family atmosphere there and is beloved by his employees. Known for his generosity, Harry frequently donated poultry to local nonprofit organizations and community events, quietly supporting causes that strengthened the region he loved.

Harry was deeply involved in public service and community organizations. He served as a member of the Lions Club, was a dedicated Master Mason with Doric Lodge No. 30 A.F. & A.M., and served on the Indian River School District Board of Education, where he was elected president. He was also a faithful member of Mariners Bethel Global Methodist Church.

More than any title or accomplishment, Harry treasured his family. He is survived by his daughters, Amy D. Brothers and her husband, Keith Brothers, and Adel H. Dukes; his grandsons, Alfred H. Dukes and Hudson C. Brothers; his sisters, Nancy D. Wadley and her husband George Wadley, and Dorothy D. Rader and her husband Dennis Rader; and his nieces, many extended family members and friends who were blessed by his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering support.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gwendolyn H. Dukes; his son, Adam H. Dukes; and his parents, Harry Hocker Dukes Jr. and Mabel Holt Dukes.

Harry will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, businessman, church member, community leader, and friend. His generosity touched countless lives, and his example of service, faith, and dedication will continue to inspire those who knew him. While he will be deeply missed, his legacy lives on through the family he loved, the community he served, and the many lives he enriched throughout his remarkable life.

Family and friends are invited to attend a viewing on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, from 9:00 am to 11:00 am at Mariner’s Bethel Global Methodist Church. A Masonic service will begin at 11:00 am, with the funeral service to follow. Interment will take place immediately afterwards at St. George’s United Methodist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Harry H. Dukes III, to Mariner’s Bethel Global Methodist Church, 81 Central Avenue, Ocean View, DE 19970. Harry felt blessed to be part of the church family, especially during this past year.

Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com