Obituary of Carol E. Dukes

Carol Shanahan Dukes, age 69 of Cortland New York, passed away on Monday February 16th, 2026, after a brief illness, surrounded by her loving family. Born on March 21, 1956 in Cortland New York, Carol was the fourth child of nine to her late father William Shanahan Jr. and mother Barbara Beers Shanahan. Carol Graduated from Homer High school in 1974. She devoted many years of her life raising her three children, then went on to raise her grandchildren, Kadin and Daisy Dukes. Carol also spent many years providing care in nursing facilities as a CNA. She treated her residents and their families with love, care, and compassion. She loved them like they were her own family. Carol enjoyed teaching her residents to sing together, especially her favorite song, "Sweet Caroline". She had the biggest heart, and brightest soul. Carol is survived by her children Robert (Melissa) Dukes, Brett Dukes, and Marisa (Jack) Gilchrist. Her grandchildren, Lexi, Anna, Niyah (Issac), Robert Jr. , Kadin, Daisy, Khloey, Damien, Kylie, Bryanna, Alexys (Mark), Trinity, Lilyana, and Aubree. Carol also leaves behind great grandchildren, Addy, Apollo, Ella, Alicio, Zaydrian, and Oliver. Along with them, Carol also leaves behind her 8 siblings, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins. We would like to thank the staff at SUNY Upstate Medical University Floor 9E, and the staff at The Renzi Cancer Center. Contributions may be made to honor Carols memory at: Upstate Foundation Inc. 750 E. Adam's St. Syracuse NY 13210, Or to the Renzi Cancer Center in Cortland NY, through Cortland Memorial Foundation. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Wright-Beard Funeral Home, Inc. is assisting the family with arrangements. To offer condolences online visit www.wright-beard.com