Doctor who treated John Connally dies

Known for bringing LifeFlight to Houston and teaching, as he would say, “From the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston”, many know Duke for his gruff theatrics.

Dr. Red Duke, whose involvement on a variety of projects and events made him an icon in Texas, the nation, the medical community and Aggieland, has died at the age of 86.

Duke, recognizable with a bushy mustache and colorful stories, was a media personality.

In recent years, Duke worked with the U.S. military to improve medical technology on the battlefield and dedicated himself to helping veterans transition into the civilian workforce. “I, along with everyone at Memorial Hermann, will forever miss Dr. Duke”. He was also instrumental in starting the Life Flight program at Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston.

Among other things, he single-handedly saved the life of former Texas Governor John Connally after he and JFK were shot in Dallas in 1963.

Born in Ennis in 1928 and raised in Hillsboro, Duke acquired his life-long nickname as a youngster due to his long red curly locks.

Dr. Duke attended Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary where he received a divinity degree in 1955.

He was also the host of a nationally syndicated TV show called “Texas Health Reports” where he gave down-home advice on topics ranging from cancer to the common cold.

In 1972 he joined the then-fledgling University of Texas Medical School in Houston as a professor of surgery and continued there throughout his career, even as his fame grew.

With DREAMS, EMTs in remote areas could consult with specialists to determine whether patients could be treated at local hospitals, or if they needed to be airlifted to an urban trauma center at great expense. Any inquiries may be directed to Mr. John Onstott, President of Geo. H. Lewis & Sons Funeral Directors.

Dr. Duke came to Houston in the early 70s and stayed here for the rest of his life.