Harrison Reed Duke III

Harrison Reed Duke III, a man of profound character, unwavering brotherhood, and deep-rooted Detroit pride, transitioned on February 6, 2026. A true champion of achievement, Harrison’s legacy stretches from the heart of the Motor City to the banks of the Chesapeake Bay and across the Caribbean Sea. Born on April 8, 1951, in Detroit, Michigan, he was the beloved son of Harrison Reed Duke Jr. and Pauline Blanche Duke. He attended Detroit Public Schools and graduated from Mumford High School in 1969, and earned his Bachelor of Science in Marketing with an emphasis on accounting and finance from Hampton University, a Master's in Educational Administration from Marygrove College, a Master's in vocational Education from Wayne State University and a Master's in Curriculum from Eastern Michigan University. A man of extraordinary character, quiet strength, and unmistakable Detroit pride, Harrison lived a life defined by integrity, curiosity, and service. From his early days as a Mumford Mustang to his cherished years at Hampton University, he embodied excellence, humor, and humility. His dedication to others carried him across South America, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic as a member of the Peace Corps, experiences that shaped his global perspective and lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship, justice, and human dignity. For more than 30 years, Harrison was a celebrated educator within the Career and Technical Education Department within Detroit Public Schools. Although he retired as the director of the CTE department he truly thrived in the classroom, teaching marketing, accounting and Distributive Education Clubs of America/DECA with an energy and commitment that inspired generations of students. He believed deeply in the power of education to open doors and transform. Known for his high standards, engaging teaching style, and his ability to make students feel seen and capable, Harrison helped shape countless future professionals, leaders, and entrepreneurs. His impact, measured not only in academic success but in confidence, character, and opportunity, continues to echo through the lives of all who had the privilege of learning from him. As a proud and active third‑generation member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Harrison was deeply respected for his wisdom, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to the Bond. He served the Detroit Alumni Chapter with distinction as Undergraduate Advisor and Chapter Historian, and contributed meaningfully through his work on the Member Training, Reclamation, and Spirit Committees. Harrison also made a lasting impact at the provincial level as the first Director of Undergraduate Affairs for the Northern Province, as well as through his service on the Northern Province Historian and Membership Training Academy Committees. Renowned for his sharp wit, generous spirit, and steadfast leadership, Harrison was a pillar within both the Detroit Alumni Chapter and the Northern Province, embodying the highest ideals of achievement and brotherhood. Above all else, Harrison treasured his family. He shared a profound and tender bond with his grandchildren, Duke Alexander, and Drew Symone, guiding them with stories of history, lessons of kindness, and the enduring wisdom of the "Beatitudes." His presence was a source of comfort, insight, and joy, a storyteller whose words could illuminate a room and a patriarch whose love shaped generations. He is preceded in death by his sister Diana Anita Duke and is lovingly remembered by his wife, Herenia Odette Duke (Lemoine), his daughters, Odette Laura Duke-Washington (David Washington), Jennifer Pauline Duke, his grandchildren, the brothers of the Sports and Technology Conference, and his extended family including Hampton classmates, Kappa brothers, and a wide constellation of friends and mentees whose lives he deeply touched. Harrison leaves behind a legacy of compassion, achievement, and grace. His life reminds us that true greatness is found not only in what we pursue, but in what we impart to others. All who knew him carry forward his light, his wisdom, and his enduring example of a life well lived.

Harrison Reed Duke III

February 8, 2026