Loyce Melodee Duke was born on a clear Halloween night at Brooklyn Hospital in Brooklyn, New York. She was immediately beloved by the nursing staff, who affectionately called her “a melody,” and thus her middle name was chosen.

Melodee began her education at the LaGuardia (Fame) Performing Arts High School, where she excelled due to her vocal talent. In 1980, her family relocated to Albany, NY, where Melodee attended Albany High School. After graduation, Melodee began working for the New York State Comptroller, during which time she also went back to school and graduated from Schenectady Community College as a Paralegal. Melodee went on to work for the New York State Comptroller for almost 20 years. She made many dear friends during that time, such as Caroline Jubert, Diane Rider, James Celestine, Marty Chauvin, Phyllis Teal, and Karleen McKeighan. Her kind heart and beautiful spirit gained her many friendships that transcended time and distance. She leaves behind beloved friends Tracy Woods, Sharon Royal, Arlene Gonzales, Homer Bosh, and many more.

On July 11th, 2003, Melodee was diagnosed with Type 2 Spinocerbellar Ataxia, a progressive & incurable genetic disease that drastically affected her speech, mobility, and coordination. Despite the daunting diagnosis, Melodee always looked to the future with the belief that she was blessed and things could always be worse. For over 10 years, her daughter Jazmin N Carothers lovingly cared for her mother alongside Donna Green to ensure her vivacious spirit continued to shine brightly.

On February 6th, 2026, Melodee passed away peacefully in her sleep. She is survived by her mother, Loyce O Duke; daughter, Jazmin N Carothers; brother, Danier Moore Sr.; sister, Simone Sawyer; nephew, Danier Moore Jr.; niece, Diviya Moore; godmother, Juanita Russell; and long-time caregiver and friend, Donna Green.

In death, Melodee is reunited with her great-grandparents, Gertrude & Paul Black; grandparents Alma & Joe Caroll, and friends Lorraine G Newsome, Angela Betsill, and Deborah Green.

   The life and legacy of Ms. Loyce Melodee Duke will be forever cherished by her family and friends.   

   Services are entrusted to:   

   Allen Dave Funeral Homes and Crematorium   

   2103 Cypress Landing Rd   

   Houston, TX 77090   

   713-480-2966   

   www.allendave.com