Jeretta D. Duckery

“What though the radiance which was once so bright. Be now forever taken from my sight. Though nothing can bring back the hour of splendor in the grass, of glory in the flower. We will grieve not, rather find strength in what remains behind.” Wm. Wordsworth William L. Patterson and Elizabeth A. Patterson welcomed their first child, Jeretta Delores Patterson, on January 13, 1935, in Chester, Pennsylvania. After graduating from the Chester Public School System, Jeretta matriculated at Wilberforce University in Wilberforce, Ohio. While there, she joined the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc and graduated in 1956 with a Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in music. Jeretta was employed at the Sleighton Farm School For Girls and later the Governor Bacon Health Center, where she met and later married Vincent Duckery on August 5, 1961. She later worked in a specialized reading program at Harlan Elementary School and a similar program at Mary C. I. Williams School, both located in Wilmington, Delaware. Jeretta retired in June 1997 while employed at P. S. DuPont Elementary School. Joining St. Daniels United Methodist Church at an early age, Jeretta remained a faithful member throughout her life. She served on several church ministries which included Aid Guild, was an original member of Class #16, Pastor Parish (Staff Parish), and the Lucy A. Wricks Scholarship Committee where she established a scholarship in memory of her late sister Arbutus Johnson. Jeretta’s generosity was displayed through donating to multiple charities. Included were The United Negro College Fund, Vincent’s alma mater, the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Doctors Without Borders, and her alma mater, Wilberforce University. Jeretta had interests that extended to being a Lifetime Member of Wilberforce University Alumni Association, a “Golden Soror” of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., as well as Lifetime Member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Her hobbies included travel, word puzzles and crocheting. She sustained her faith throughout her life and attended church when health allowed. Jeretta was pre-deceased by her husband Vincent Duckery, Sr., parents William and Elizabeth Patterson, sister Arbutus Johnson, and stepmother Mattie Patterson. She leaves to cherish her memory sons Karl Patterson (Valerie deceased), Vincent Duckery, Jr., Elgin C. Duckery (Andrea), and daughter Elvira Duckery. Sister Rose Patterson along with brothers Wendall Patterson and William Patterson 3rd. Grandchildren Miranda Patterson, Elgin W. Duckery, Kyle Patterson, and Ethan Duckery, along with a Great-Granddaughter Emilia Duckery. Jeretta is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. “Sunset and evening star, And one clear call for me! Turns again home. Twilight and evening bell, And after that the dark! When I have crossed the bar.” A. L. Tennyson

Jeretta D. Duckery

January 13, 1935 - December 4, 2023