DUKE

Evelyn Gene Goodwin Duke, age 89, of Manchester, passed away peacefully on Sept. 25, 2025, at NHC Tullahoma following an extended illness. Affectionately known as “Nana” by many, Evelyn was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend. Born on March 17, 1936, in Manchester, Evelyn was the only daughter of the late Mattie McBride Goodwin and Vernon Goodwin, and sister to the late Jackie “Butch” McBride. She accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior as a young girl, and her faith guided her every step in life. On April 4, 1951, she married the love of her life, Max Ames Duke. Together, they shared a strong and faithful marriage, built on love, trust, and devotion. Evelyn lovingly cared for Max during his brief battle with a brain tumor, standing by his side until his passing on July 31, 2000, which is a true testament to the vows they shared. Evelyn worked for 51 years at PCA as a sewing machine operator and trainer. She was respected and loved by her coworkers for her patience, kindness, and strong work ethic. She touched countless lives through her mentorship and quiet encouragement. She was a dedicated caregiver not only to her husband, but also to her mother, Mattie, in the final years of her life, and to her great-grandson, Trey, whom she babysat from infancy until he started pre-K. She continued to pick him up from elementary school every day, forming a bond that brought her great joy until her last breath. Evelyn was a longtime member of Trinity Baptist Church in Manchester since 1980 and a former member of Westwood Baptist Church in Manchester. Her faith was steadfast, and she lived out the love of Christ in every part of her life. Evelyn is survived by her devoted daughter, Donna Duke Strickland; her loving granddaughter, Tracy Strickland; and her treasured great-grandson, Trey Bigsby. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Shirley McBride; several nieces and nephews; and many dear friends. Among those closest to her heart was her lifelong best friend of 82 years, Bobbie Shelton, who was more like a sister than just a friend. Also, she formed a special bond and friendship with one of her CNAs at NHC, Jonathan Poe, whom she loved, thought the world of, and considered family. Evelyn’s daughter, granddaughter, and great-grandson would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the staff at NHC Tullahoma for the excellent care provided to her over the past two years. A special thank you to Allison, Consuela, “Doctor” Neal, Ron, Hannah, and Andrew, along with all the other nurses, CNAs, and staff at NHC for the kindness and dignity they showed her every day. The family is also deeply grateful to Caris Hospice for their compassion, care, and comfort in Evelyn’s final days, especially the hospice nurse Ron. Visitation was held on Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Manchester Funeral Home, with the funeral service at 1 p.m., officiated by Pastor Jerry Pullum. Burial was at Rose Hill Memorial Gardens, where Evelyn was laid to rest beside her late husband, Max Duke.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Evelyn’s memory to Trinity Baptist Church’s Building Fund. A special thank you to Pastor Jerry Pullum, the Trinity Baptist Church family, and many friends for all the prayers, love, and support.

Manchester Funeral Home