Robert "Duke" Porter departed this life on February 17, 2025 at the age of 39, he was born on October 29, 1985 in Shelby, MS to Mattie Porter and Robert Taylor.  Duke grew up with a zest for life that never waned.  He faced significant health challenges as a child; however, his indomitable spirit and optimism saw him through those difficult times, shaping him into the cheerful man we all came to love.  His struggles only strengthened his resolve to live life fully and spread happiness wherever he went.  He approached every challenge with courage, every opportunity with enthusiasm, and every person with kindness.  His happy-go-lucky nature was matched only by his deep compassion and unwavering support for those he cared about.

Robert found joy in the simplest thing-whether it was spending time with family and friends, sharing stories, or lending a helping hand to anyone in need.  Duke was a man whose smile could brighten even the darkest of days.  His infectious laughter and boundless optimism were gifts he shared freely, leaving an indelible mark on all who crossed his path.  Whether it was a kind word, a warm hug, or simply his presence, he had an extraordinary ability to make others feel seen, valued and loved.  Duke taught us all the importance of cherishing each moment.  He found his calling as a mechanic, a profession where his skillful hands and keen mind could work wonders.  He had an innate ability to fix anything with a motor, but more importantly, he had a gift for lifting spirits.

He is survived by his mother, Mattie Porter of Mound Bayou, MS, father, Robert(Evelyn) Taylor of Memphis, TN, a son, Armad Gant of Mound Bayou, MS; five sisters, Stephanie Porter of Horn Lake, MS, Kywanda (Cedric) Cameron of Walls, MS, Sharonica Porter of Horn Lake, MS, Terneec Taylor of Memphis, TN and Kimberly Welch of Horn Lake, MS; three brothers, Tremayne Porter of Horn Lake, MS, Robert (Daniele) Sparks of Decatur, GA, Terrence Taylor of Memphis, TN, a step brother, Robert Wilburn of Memphis, TN, ten nieces, nine nephews, two great-nephews, a special lady Marilyn Ross and a host of special brothers, aunts, uncles and cousins ( Joshua Jones, Diann Montgomery, Kitzi Porter, Dorothy (Terry) Turner, Nicholas Turner, Jacquelyn Allen, Carrie Snipes, Bernita Galibez, Cornelius Scott, Reginald Scott, Lenard Jones, Carolyn Schott, Shakeba Hall, Alpha Wilson, Banner Sandra, Josephine Womack, Dorotha Pearson, Jeanette Scott, NaQuita Porter, Charles Jackson, Patricia Porter, Martha Jackson, Deobrae Taylor, Jermaine Butler, Blondean Vaughn and Scott Taylor) who will carry forward his legacy of love, laughter and positivity.  Though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit will live on in the countless memories he created and the lives he touched.

Robert was preceded in death by his grandmothers, Dorothy Porter and Mary Taylor, grandfathers, Andrew Jackson and Scott Taylor, stepfather, James Kirk and other aunts, uncles, cousins and good friends.

As we say goodbye to Robert "Daddy Duke" Porter, let us remember him not with tears but with smiles, just as he would have wanted.  May we strive to embody his warmth, his kindness, and his unshakable belief in the beauty of life.