A suspicious death investigation was launched on March 28 in Anne Arundel County when police were called to the 900 block of Spa Road, where they found an unresponsive man - later identified by the Medical Examiner as 47-year-old David "Duke" Winchester Jr. - dead.
Now, support from friends and neighbors is pouring in days later or the man with a "kind heart, infectious smile and unwavering devotion to his family" who leaves behind 10 children and six grandchildren.
"Duke was a beloved father, son, brother, uncle cousin, who was suddenly and tragically taken from us," Eboni Brice, who called Winchester his "big brother," said. "As we grieve this profound loss, we are also faced with the daunting task of covering the funeral costs to give Duke the dignified sendoff he deserves.
"This is an overwhelming burden for our mother, Beverly, to bear alone."
In the days following his death, more than $3,400 has been raised for the grieving family from nearly three dozen donors.
"Your generosity will allow our family to focus on honoring Duke's memory and supporting his children, rather than worrying about the expenses," organizers of the GoFundMe campaign posted. "Duke's legacy of love, laughter, and being the life of the party will live on through his children."
Funeral services have been scheduled for Saturday, April 13. Anyone interested in donating to the family can do so here.
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