Hettie Dean "Bootsy" Duke

Hettie Dean "Bootsy" Duke, a cherished mother, grandmother, and community member, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 26th, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on May 15th, 1936, in Cobbtown, Georgia, Hettie lived a life full of warmth, love, and care for everyone around her. She spent her later years residing in Savannah, GA, where she left a lasting impact on her community and loved ones.

Bootsy was the beloved wife of the late William Oliver "Bill" Duke; adoring mother of her late sons, William Michael and Douglas Allen Duke; and the devoted daughter of the late Galvin Washington Cowart and Pearl Findley Cowart. She was also predeceased by her seven siblings.

Bootsy was a loving mother to her daughter Denise Duke Wilds, and sons Richard Andrew Duke (Beverly) and William Stephen "Steve" Duke (Jan). She is survived by numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews who will carry forward her legacy of kindness and generosity.

Bootsy's life was one of service and devotion, both to her family and her community. She worked tirelessly as a school bus driver for the Chatham County Board of Education in Savannah, Georgia, where she was affectionately known as "everybody's Mama and Nanny." Her love for children and adults alike and her genuine care for their well-being stood as a testament to her nurturing spirit.

Known for her open heart and welcoming nature, Bootsy never met a stranger. She was a good cook, always ready to feed anyone who was hungry, and her home was a place of laughter, warmth, and ample servings of love. A wonderful wife, Hettie enjoyed bluegrass music, and she and her husband attended many festivals together, sharing their love of music with others. She loved to travel, embracing the wonders of the world with open arms, and cherished spending time in nature through camping.

Family game nights were a staple of Bootsy's life, where her competitive yet playful spirit shone brightly as she played Scrabble and Uno, among other games, with those she loved.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Bootsy’s remarkable life at a visitation on Thursday, April 3rd, 2025, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Baker McCullough Funeral Home Garden City Chapel in Garden City, Georgia. Her funeral service will be held at the same location on Friday, April 4th, 2025, at 11:00 am, with burial to follow at Forest Lawn Memory Gardens.

Hettie Dean "Bootsy" Duke touched the lives of all who knew her with her genuine love and care. Her selfless spirit and infectious warmth have left an indelible mark on family and friends alike. As we bid farewell to Bootsy, let us honor her life by embodying the kindness and generosity she showed to everyone she met.

Arrangements are provided by Baker McCullough Funeral Home-Garden City Chapel. Bootsy will be dearly missed but forever remembered in the hearts of those she loved.