Sherrell Blair

Sherrell Lavon Blair of Belleview, Missouri, affectionately known as “Dukie”, was born on July 12, 1946 in DeSoto, MO, a daughter of the late Laverne (Helms) Giles and lovingly raised by her maternal grandparents, William and Maude Helms. Dukie passed away on Wednesday, March 22, 2023, having reached the age of 76.

Those who remain to treasure her memory include her longtime companion of 31 years, Danny Akers; three daughters: Beth Elliott (husband, Eddie), Donna Spain, and Shanna Akers; grandchildren: Sarah Hinrichs (husband, Daniel), Lindsy Carey (husband, Dustin), Jake Brooks (wife, Emily), and Carley Underdown; great-grandchildren: Addi and Ryan Carey, Tyler Hinrichs, Kylehn and Richard Ruiz, Douglas Hinrichs (wife, Erin) , Christina Hinrichs (husband, Jordan), Cody Hinrichs; siblings: Kay Daniels (husband, William), Charolette Rutledge (husband, Randy), Verla Elliott-Underwood (husband, Edgar), Sandra Lane and Mike Allen, Loretta Crisp (husband, Dennis), and Linnie Smith. Dukie is also survived by in-laws, nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

Dukie was preceded in death by her parents: Laverne Giles, and William “Bill” and Maude Helms; husband, Norman “Tubby” Blair Sr. on March 8, 1990; son, Norman Blair Jr.; siblings: Morgan Giles, Billy Giles, Joan Giles, Jewell Holliday, Bill Birch, Rodney (Marilyn) Smith, Junior Smith, Bub Smith, sonny Smith, and Bonnie West; as well as in-laws and many other dear relatives.

Dukie loved her grandkids, and always looked forward to babysitting or having them over to spend the night with her. Recently, Dukie looked forward to traveling and watching her grandson, Ryan, race his 4wheeler. She also loved spending time with her family, friends, and her better half, Danny Akers. One thing that Dukie was known for was her famous chicken and dumplings. She took care of Maude until her passing. Dukie retired from Belleview Valley Nursing Home after serving many years as a certified medical technician. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 24, 2023, from 5 to 8 pm at DeClue Funeral Home. Visitation will continue on Saturday, March 25, 2023 from 9 to 11 am.

A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, March 25, 2023 at 11 am, at the DeClue Memorial Chapel, officiated by Pastor Brad Asher. Interment will follow at Caledonia Methodist Cemetery, in Caledonia, Missouri.

DeClue Funeral Home was honored to have served the family of Ms. Sherrell Blair.