Janet Duke

September 16. 1942 - June 15. 2024

"Goodbye may seem forever, farewell is like the end, but in my heart is a memory and there you'll always be." - Fox and the Hound (Walt Disney)

Janet Duke, 81, a cherished lifelong resident of Hardee County, Florida, passed away peacefully in her sleep on June 15, 2024, surrounded by her loving family after a tedious 4 long month battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born on September 16, 1942, to Nancy Ruth and Joseph Hansuch, Janet quickly became the heart of the family. She grew to be a courageous, caring, and generous human being, who would never hesitate to open her arms and home to anyone in need. She was a beacon of warmth, love, and joy whose presence always brought light and humor to all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

On June 15, 1962, Janet married the love of her life, Dan B. Duke Sr., beginning a beautiful journey that spanned nearly six decades. Together, they built a family filled with love and laughter, raising three wonderful children: Denna, Tami, and Daniel B Duke Jr. Her children brought her tremendous pride and her love for them could move mountains. However, Janet's greatest joy in life was her role as a grandmother. Her five grandchildren, Emily, Jarret, Jamal, Abby, and Trenton, were the lights of her life.

She poured her heart into every moment she spent with them, delighting in their laughter, celebrating their achievements, and showering
them with her endless well of love and wisdom. Her legacy of affection and support will forever be a guiding light in their lives.

She was preceded in death by her father, Joseph Hanusch, sister, Nancy Jo Hanusch, Mother, Nancy Ruth Hanusch, Daughter, Denna Duke Carlton, and Husband, Dan B Duke Sr.

She is survived by her two remaining children Tami D. Rhodes and Daniel Jr & Amy Duke, and five grandchildren.

Janet's heart was a tapestry woven with simple joys and childlike wonder. She had a lifelong love of Walt Disney World and Mickey Mouse, bringing a touch of magic into her home by surrounding herself with cherished memorabilia. Aside from her frequent trips to Disney, she found solace on the beaches of Anna Maria Island, where she would collect seashells and religiously watch the sunset.

Professionally, Janet was a dedicated and respected figure at the First National Bank of Wauchula, where she worked as a loan officer and a Vice President from the early 1960s until her retirement in 2008. Her commitment to her work built long-lasting relationships with colleagues
and clients alike.

As we mourn the loss of our beloved Janet, we are comforted by the beautiful memories she leaves behind. Her life was a testament to the
power of love, joy, and unwavering dedication to family. Her legacy will continue to inspire us, reminding us to cherish each moment and love
deeply.

A celebration of Janet's life will be held on June 22, 2024, at Ponger-Kay-Grady Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation will start at 10 AM, followed by a service at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to either St. Jude Children's Hospital or a charity of your choice in her honor.

Online condolences can be made at www.pongerkaysgrady.com

Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Homes & Cremation have been entrusted with the arrangements.