Curtis Lee Durham

Curtis Lee Durham, also lovingly known as Uncle Curtis, was born to the union of Frank Durham Sr. and Helen Durham (who preceded him in death). Curtis was the second oldest of ten children. Curtis accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at an early age and was baptized at Zion Baptist Church by Reverend Booth. Curtis graduated from Robert A. Taft High School in 1967. Growing up Curtis enjoyed music, specifically Jazz, he was an athlete playing both football and baseball. Curtis played the drums in the high school band.

After graduating from high school, Curtis was employed by Procter and Gamble Company. Shortly after, he was notified that he would be drafted into the United States Armed forces (Army Branch). He served for two years in the Army and his older brother Gary Eugene Durham (preceded in death) served two years in the Navy branch. They were so close that when Gary was advised that Curtis was going to be deployed to serve a term in the Vietnam War, Gary quickly, and selflessly enlisted again, so that Curtis would not have to serve in the Vietnam War.

Curtis was honorably discharged after he served a full tour of duty in Germany. He returned home and resumed his employment with Procter and Gamble Company. He worked for several years until the decline of his health which forced early retirement.

Curtis worked very hard helping his mother and siblings both financially and emotionally. He constantly encouraged all the family members to be the very best they can be, emphasizing the need for education. Curtis fostered this same attitude of education, determination, professionalism, dedication to duty, integrity, and zeal for life to his nephews and nieces. Curtis was very proud of his nephews and nieces who honor his memory. His legacy is represented by numerous Graduates, Undergraduates, Associates, and Certificates earned by his nephews and nieces.

Curtis was truly a dresser (known as The Man) in the sense that he only wore the best from head to toe. Further reflected in how he decorated his home, with the latest interior decorations and designs that expressed his strong attitude and love for life.

He leaves to cherish his memory; companion/Caregiver: Alicia Daniels (AKA Penny); one daughter: Kimberly Keeling; and granddaughter: Kira Keeling; six siblings: Brenda Greene (Eddie), Paul Durham (Rose), Frank Durham, Leon Durham (Angela), Lorraine Durham, and Linda Millner. A host of Nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Three siblings that preceded him in death Nathaniel “Nate” Cook, Dorothy P. Hall, and Gary Eugene Durham.

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