Jesse Leroy Dukes
Obituary

Jesse Dukes Jr. passed away on June 27, 2026, in Van Nuys, California, at the age of 73.

Born on October 9, 1952, in Chicago, Illinois, Jesse was a social person who many considered the life of the party. He loved spending time with family and friends and had a passion for sports, especially basketball. The Los Angeles Lakers were his favorite team, and if anyone was looking for him, they often knew to check the local park.

Jesse worked for the City of Los Angeles for many years. He was most proud of his two children, Darryl and Jessica, and always wanted to know how they were doing as they grew into strong individuals. He loved them very much and would want to be remembered as a loving husband and father.

He is survived by his wife, Brenda Dukes; his son, Darryl Dukes; his daughter, Jessica Dukes; his grandchildren, Darryl Jr., Amarii Williams, Arihyan Williams, and Briayl Dukes, whom he loved deeply; his sisters, Joyce "Yoyo" Dukes, Elvelyn "Cookie" Dukes, Linda Dukes, and Amense Dukes; as well as a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse Sr. and Ernistine Dukes, and his sister, Beatrese "Be Be" Sherman.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

The family also shares these words in Jesse's memory:

 

Let Me Go

When I come to the end of the road

And the sun has set for me,

I want no rites in a gloom-filled room,

Why cry for a soul set free?

 

Miss me a little, but not for long,

And not with your head bowed low.

Miss me, but let me go.

 

When you are lonely and sick at heart,

Go to the friends we know.

Laugh at all the things we used to do.

Miss me, but let me go.