Michael Alexander "Mike" Duke, 86

McMinnville resident and Warren County native Michael Alexander "Mike" Duke, 86, was born July 8, 1939 and died October 31, 2025 at his residence.

A retired sergeant with the Warren County Sheriff's Department for over 35 years and member of Berea Church of Christ, he was the son of the late Walter and Anna Locke Duke. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by nephew, Christian Haerle.

Mike was married January 1, 1994 to Hilda Barnes Hillis Duke.  In addition to his wife, he is survived by sister, Shirley Dykes;  son, Michael (Kate) Duke, Jr.;  bonus children, Steve (Sharla) Hillis, Dana (Monte) Mullican, Andrea Bruno and Leann (Chad) Cagle;  grandchildren, Terann (Tyler) Birdwell, Michael Mullican, Callie Bruno, Fiona Duke, Emma Hillis and Lucy Cagle;  great-grandchildren, Clark, Barnes and Woods Birdwell and special nephew, David Haerle (Erica Koesler).

Mike loved to work on the farm.  If something was broken, he could fix it or make another one.  He was happy to downsize in later years.  He was the best husband, father and grandfather. He was kind, generous and always had a ready smile.

The Duke family would like to extend a special thanks to nurse Judy Hopkins with USA Renal Care and the staff of Gentiva Hospice.

Funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, November 8, 2025 in High's Chapel with Eugene Adkins, Jackie Matheny, Sr., Dana Mullican, Richard Bowman and Steve Hillis officiating. Burial will follow in the Salem Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until time of service Saturday at High's.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Meals on Wheels.

Online condolences may be made at www.highfuneralhome.com.

High Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. 

Main Street Journal

Oct. 3, 2025