Celebrating the Life of Samuel E. Dukes, Sr.

It is with heartfelt love and remembrance that we announce the homegoing of Mr. Samuel Edward Dukes, Sr., affectionately known as “Sam.”

Though not a member of our congregation, Sam was the beloved brother of our dear Sister Frances Stevens, and as such, his loss is deeply felt by our church family.

Visitation will take place on Friday, April 11, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Paradise Funeral Home.

His Homegoing Celebration Service will be held on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church (11591 SW 220th Street, Goulds, Florida 33170).

Following the service, a repast will be held in the multi-purpose building (old sanctuary) of Second Baptist Church.

A Life Well Lived

Born on November 12, 1942, in Miami, Florida, Sam was the son of the late Enoch and Henrietta Dukes and one of five children. He was preceded in death by his brother, Enoch Dukes III.

Sam received his early education through Miami-Dade County Public Schools, attending Carver High School in Coconut Grove before furthering his education at Clark College in Atlanta, Georgia.

In 1959, he met his lifelong love, Vinette Butler, and the two were married on August 18, 1961. Together, they built a family blessed with five children.

Sam began his extraordinary 58-year career with the United States Postal Service in 1967, becoming a beloved and dedicated mail carrier in the Goulds community. Known by many titles—“The Mayor of Goulds,” “The Duke of Quail,” “The Icon,” “The Famous Mailman,” “The Pioneer of Goulds,” “The Legend,” and simply, “Sam the Mailman”—he was celebrated not just for his longevity but for his unmatched work ethic. In 2017, Sam made headlines when he took his first-ever sick day after 43 years of service. “I came to the post office looking for a job,” he once said humbly, “and now I do what I need to do—and that’s come to work every day.”

His dedication and humility left a lasting impression on the many lives he touched, both through his work and his generous spirit.

Sam’s hobbies reflected his love for nature and physical activity. He found joy in deep sea fishing, hunting with his sons, working out, and playing basketball at Suniland Park. He also had a passion for youth sports and served as a respected football coach with the Southwest Boys Club and the Kendall Broncos Pop Warner Program, shaping young lives with guidance and discipline.

Quiet, humble, and deeply respected, Sam’s legacy of love, community, and service will live on through the many people he impacted.

On April 7, 2025, Sam was called home to be with the Lord. He leaves behind a legacy that will be cherished forever by those who loved him.

He is survived by his former wife, Vinette Dukes, and their children:

Samuel E. Dukes Jr. (LaShawn), Debbie Kimes (Arthur), Tracy Dukes, Clarence Dukes (Sandrene), and Kelly Dukes.

His grandchildren:

Ari-Ane Washington, Willie Wells-Dukes, Morghan Kimes, Chaneya Joyner, Chinese Joyner, Shelby Kimes, David Kimes, Jordan Dukes, Justin Dukes, Matthew Dukes, Mark Dukes, and Michael Dukes.

His siblings:

Mae Frances Stevens, Mary Virginia Blacksheare, and Clarence Dukes (Ruth).

And his dear lifelong friend, Nora Brown, along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and treasured friends.

Sam lived a life of purpose, integrity, and heart. He will truly be missed.