Captain Raymond Doke

Our Hometown Heroes

Raymond Doke

He fought in Italy

Howard Doke rose to the rank of Captain in the U.S. Army. Prior to entering the military for active duty, Doke worked at the Griffin Grocery Company. Born on August 1, 1913, Doke was called into active duty in October, 1940. He would serve overseas with an infantry division in Italy during World War II.

Doke was killed in action in Northern Italy on October 5, 1944. His wife, Annie Sullivan Doke, formerly of Zebulon and his parents, Mr. and Mrs. E.C. Doke of Griffin and were notified of their husband and son’s death. Captain Doke and his wife Annie, had two children, Carl and Ray Anne.

Captain Doke’s body was returned to his hometown Griffin. He is buried in the Oak Hill Cemetery. Doke may not have returned home alive but a grateful community now honors the US Army Captain. An individual plaque will be installed in Historic Downtown Griffin. The plaque is sponsored by and anonymous donor in honor of Dr. Robert Gordon.