Charles Wayne Dukes

C. Wayne Dukes of Brasstown North Carolina went to be with his Lord on June 20th, 2026.

Wayne is survived by myself, Sherry Bell Dukes, his devoted and loving wife, Tara Scarlet Noland, his beloved daughter, Timothy Richard Noland, his beloved son-in-law, Madeleine Sierra Noland, his beloved granddaughter and Xavier Duke Noland, his beloved grandson. He was born on February 15th, 1953 to the late Charles Herschel Dukes and Liller Mae Bilyeu Dukes of Kentucky.

Wayne was a creative and loving soul and the love of my life. Wayne, also known as the Highlander, was an exceptional carver, the co-owner of Highlander Gallery and the co-publisher and photo journalist of theBlueRidgeHighlander.com. Wayne, always being ahead of the time, began the Highlander in 1996 and was a successful pioneer in the internet world, which he continued to the end.

His passions were Jesus Christ, his family, history, art and the mountains. His passion for history led him to buy and renovate the Historic Creamery in Brasstown NC, where we lived and ran our businesses.

Please join us for a Celebration of Love in honor of Wayne Dukes
Sunday, September 6th, 2026 at 4 pm
at the Highlander Gallery / Historic Creamery located at 10079 Old Highway 64, West, Brasstown, NC

We chose Labor Day weekend because the original Creamery was dedicated on Labor Day in 1929. This day will be a celebration of his life and a dedication to his Labor of Love; one he labored on continuously until the day before he passed.

This will be a relaxed, potluck style memorial where we can share food, stories, and love. Please bring a favorite dish, comfort food, or something that reminds you of them. Most importantly, bring your memories and your presence. We can’t wait to see everyone.

Let’s honor the beautiful life of an exceptional husband, loving father and the most amazing grandfather in the world.

Please RSVP by September 1st, via email brhighlander@gmail.com or text 828-557-0557