Carolyn Rankin Duke

Carolyn Rankin Duke, 69, of Jonesboro  passed away peacefully surrounded by her closest loved ones on Friday, January 6, 2023.

She was born in Newport, Arkansas on November 9,1953 to the late John J. and Pauline (Brady) Rankin.

Carolyn was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Jonesboro. She graduated Jonesboro High School in 1971 and earned her Bachelors of Arts degree at ASU in 1975.

She applied her artistic talents in many ways including advertising, window displays, and decorating for Grisham’s and later assisted in management at House & Garden.

Carolyn spent over 20 years as a Preschool and Kindergarten director. She loved all of her students and teachers.

She was a member of many social organizations such as Kappa Delta Sorority, Jonesboro Junior Auxiliary, PEO CF Chapter and her precious Birthday Club.

During her retirement she enjoyed painting, gardening, spending time with her husband, children, grandchildren and her Miniature Schnauzer, Arnie.

In addition to her parents she is preceded in death by a special Uncle, Vernon Stone, and cousin, Charles Stone and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins and grandparents.

She is survived by her husband of 43 years, Bill Duke, and their children Joe (Adriane) of Jonesboro, and Ellen (Brian)Lisko of Hazen;

Sister, Paula (Mike)Thompson of Jonesboro, and her nephews Jonathan and Nate Pyle; Grandchildren Dayton Duke, Rankin Margaret Duke, Lucy Lisko, and Molly Lisko; Step-Daughters, Corie (Bradley) Goodman of Paragould and Candi (Sean) Scott of Austin,TX.; A special Aunt, Freddie Stone and cousin Travis (Nancy) Stone of Jonesboro, and a host of relatives and friends.

There will be a joint celebration of life for Carolyn and her Daddy, Joe Rankin, from 2:00-3:00 pm on Monday, January 9th in the Atrium of the First United Methodist Church, 801 South Main Street in Jonesboro with John Miles speaking. The burial will be private.

For lasting memorials, please consider the NEA Humane Society.