“Tommy”'s obituary
Thomas (“Tommy”) Willard Dukes, 77, of Arlington, VA entered eternal rest on February 25, 2025, at Virginia Hospital Center after suffering complications due to congestive heart failure. In keeping with his wishes, the rite of cremation has been accorded. Tom was born in Kentucky on September 21, 1947. In his early years he attended boarding school at The Poitiers American High School in Poitiers, France while his father was in the military service stationed in Europe. He served in the U.S. Army from 1967 – 1969 during the Vietnam war. Tom went on to graduate with a degree in Engineering from George Mason University in VA. In his federal civilian service career, he was a senior Regulatory Analyst for the U.S. Department of Energy, retiring in 2002.. He was a voracious reader, collecting many books and periodicals. Tommy loved walking and biking around his Arlington neighborhood and especially Old Town, Alexandria, where he was a friend known to many, a true “Man about Town.” He loved hanging out at the Daingerfield Island Sailing Marina in Alexandria. One of his very favorite places was the Fish Market pub in Old Town, especially on Sunday afternoons where many friends would gather to meet him for laughs, stories, brews, and camaraderie. Tom was also deeply passionate about spending time in Dewey Beach, Delaware with many friends over the years, always smiling and telling amusing stories; he was the ultimate raconteur! He was extremely generous, always surprising friends with gifts. He was an active member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles (FOE) and the Old Dominion Boat Club (ODBC) where he loved to host friends for events such as the Luau and Mardi Gras parties, among others. Tom is survived by his brother, Charles Jr., a nephew, Aaron; and many longtime friends. He was pre-deceased by his father, Charles Sr.; Mother Barbara; and younger brother Stephen. Left to cherish memories of a wonderful and generous “Tommy” are friends too numerous to mention. His kindness and laughter will forever be missed. To honor his generosity and friendship, please consider donating in his name to the St. Jude Children’s Hospital (https://www.stjude.org/donate…); the Tunnels to Towers Veterans Foundation (https://T2T.org); George Mason University (http://giving.gmu.edu); or a Charity of your choice. On line condolences may also be left at: www.greenefh.net, or on this web page at “Memories”. A memorial celebration of life will be announced separately. Interment in Arlington National Cemetery will take place at a later date.
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Below is a tribute I wrote about Tommy. The Old Town Crier published it, but in a shorter version due to a lack of page…
Below is a tribute I wrote about Tommy. The Old Town Crier published it, but in a shorter version d…
Below is a tribute I wrote about Tommy. The Old Town Crier publi…