September 4, 2025. 45, Goldsboro —
Joseph Ryan “Joey” Duke, 45, passed away suddenly on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at his home.
Joey was born on June 17, 1980, in Wayne County to Sandra Gray Duke and the late Jimmy Duke. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his grandparents, Joseph and Barbara Duke and Jesse Gray; and his father-in-law, Billy Watson.
A graduate of Eastern Wayne High School, Joey was a standout athlete who excelled in every sport he played. Coached by his father, Joey developed not only his own competitive spirit but also a love for mentoring young athletes. That passion carried on throughout his life as he coached his own sons and countless youth across the county, leaving an impact on Eastern Wayne Youth Sports that will never be forgotten.
After high school, Joey attended Wayne Community College and earned his associate degree in turf management. He was currently employed in distribution with Peet’s Coffee.
Sports were at the heart of Joey’s life, and he rarely missed an opportunity to attend a game—always bringing his family along for the ride. Beyond the field, Joey will be remembered as a devoted husband, a proud daddy, a loving son and brother, and a loyal friend to many. His personality filled every room—whether singing karaoke, DJing an event, or simply sharing laughs with those he loved most.
Joey never met a stranger. The family is convinced he visited the neighborhood Food Lion daily, either for groceries or simply to chat with the employees and customers he had come to know so well. His ability to connect with others was one of his greatest gifts.
Among his many enjoyments were fishing, grilling, and being on What Not with his brother-in-law JT. Joey was known as the “master griller,” always cooking up something to share around the table, creating lasting memories over good food and laughter.
Joey is survived by his wife of 13 years, Lindsay Watson Duke; children, Michael Watson, Austin Watson, and Kayden Duke; his mother, Sandra Gray Duke; sister, Jordan Thomas and husband, JT; niece and nephew, Grayleigh and Kyson Thomas; grandmother, Brenda Perry and husband, Wilbur; uncles, Keith Gray (Becky) and Russ Duke (Lin); adopted sister, Tina Lewis; and his mother-in-law, Vicki Watson.
The family will receive friends on Monday, September 8, 2025, from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. at Seymour Funeral Home, followed by a service celebrating Joey’s life at 7:00 p.m. in the chapel.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in Joey’s memory to Eastern Wayne Youth Sports, in care of Truist Bank, 207 E. Ash Street, Goldsboro, NC 27530 (please reference EWYS for Joey).
Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
