DR. PAULINE (JACKIE) CORNELL DUKE

1946-2018

Dr. Pauline (Jackie) Cornell Duke died at her home in Alvin, TX. on July 17, 2018. She is survived by her sons, Phillip Duke and Bret Willingham, her sister, Joy Swiecki (David), seven grandchildren, a great granddaughter, and a special friend, Neal Willingham. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Paula Martinez, her sister, Joan Perkins, and her brother, John Cornell.

Jackie distinguished herself as a scholar at an early age. She was valedictorian of Travelers Rest High School in SC. After graduating from Columbia College, SC, she received her Master’s and PhD from Emory University. She had a long and amazing career as a world-renowned scientist. Her most treasured achievement was her involvement with NASA. Her many career accolades include NASA’s Group Achievement Award, representative of NASA’s Space Biology Program regarding landing rights at Easter Island, member of Post-Flight Bone Dissection Team for NASA, Outstanding Woman Scientist by Gulf Coast/Houston Chapter Association of Women in Science, and the University of Texas Dean’s Teaching Excellus Award. She received the status of Professor Emeritus from the Department of Orthodontics at the University of Texas Health Science Center School of Dentistry where she influenced many students.

Jackie’s avocational interests included cooking, creative writing, art, music, and gardening. She had a passion for rescuing animals and reaching out to people in need.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. Thursday, August 9, 2018 at Scott Funeral Home with funeral services beginning at 11:00 A.M.

A Research Scholarship fund has been set up in honor of Dr. Pauline “Jackie” Duke. All donations should be submitted to the scholarship fund mailed to: Dr. Pauline “Jackie” Duke Scholarship, The University of Texas School of Dentistry, Department of Orthodontics, 7500 Cambridge St.- Suite 5120, Houston, TX. 77054.