William Henry “Billy” Duke, age 88, of Selma, passed away Dec. 11, 2016.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul E. and Willie B. Duke; brothers, Paul E. Duke Jr. and Burrill Blanton Duke; and sister, Elizabeth Lamar.

Surviving are his wife, Jane F. Duke; children, Lynn Duke (Larry) Phelps and Paul Herndon (Mary) Duke; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; five nieces; and five nephews.

Billy was a graduate of Selma High School. He was Chief Deputy of the sheriff’s department and retired as captain with 22 years. He was a member of the Elks Lodge No. 167 and Fraternal Order of Police.

He was known for his efforts in fighting drug crimes in Dallas County. He developed the first Drug Task Force in Dallas County. He was a lifetime member of Elkdale Baptist Church.

Graveside services will be Friday, Dec. 16, 2016, at 2 p.m. in New Live Oak Cemetery with the Rev. Cory Horton officiating and Selma Funeral Home directing.

Honorary pallbearers will be the Dallas County Sheriff’s Department.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the Dallas County Sheriff’s Department or Elkdale Baptist Church.

You may go online to view obituaries, offer condolences and sign the guest book at http://www.selmafuneralhome.com/.