Duane Jerrard Lewin Platt, fondly known as DJ or Wayne, was born on March 25, 1987, in New Bedford, MA. Duane survived childhood cancer with great strength. The illness returned as an adult and his courageous fight came to an end on July 25, 2026. A man of boundless energy and infectious laughter, Duane had an adventurous spirit that was larger than life. He was a beacon of light to those around him, emanating a warmth that drew people to him. His humor was unmatched, his laughter contagious, and his generosity knew no bounds. Duane's love for his family shaped his life, illuminating the path he walked and the choices he made.

Duane was a proud alumnus of Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School, class of 2005, where he majored in Culinary Arts. His professional journey led him to work as a counselor at a group home, where he dedicated his life to support, guide, and mentor those in need. Duane's generosity extended beyond his vocation into his personal life. He was a loving soul full of compassion, always ready to listen and lend a helping hand. Duane was an active member of the New Life Church in both New Bedford and Leominster, MA, where his faith provided him solace and strength. He found joy in attending church, sporting events, riding his motorcycle, and most importantly, spending time with his beloved family and friends.

Duane is survived by his father, Jerry Platt Jr., his twin sister, Danisha Bock, his brother-in-law Brandon Bock; his brothers, Jameel Platt and Anthony Zelinskas, his sisters, Neriyah Beverly and Faith Duarte; his grandmother, Ernestine Platt; his aunts Gerrlyn Curvelo and Amanda Platt, his uncles Jeffrey Platt and Andrew Lewin and his nieces and nephews, Keith Baptista Jr., Grayson and Mia Rivera. Also survived by numerous cousins and friends who held a special place in his heart. He was preceded in death by his mother, Gaylene Lewin; his grandmother, Gail Johnson, his great-grandmother Mary Lewin; and his grandfather, Jerry Platt Sr.

Duane Moved to Worcester, MA, where he became an active member the community. He leaves behind his devoted friend, Rebecca Parmenter of Worcester, MA, who stood by him and offered loving care through Duane's illness and passing, and many close friends in Worcester whom he considered family.

As we remember Duane, we are reminded of the verse from 1 Corinthians 16:14, "Let all that you do be done in love." Duane embodied this verse in every aspect of his life, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all those he touched. His love, generosity, and adventurous spirit will forever be remembered and cherished.

Family and friends are invited to Duane's memorial visitation which will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm inside the Ferreira Chapel at the Southcoast Funeral Homes, 1555 Pleasant Street, Fall River, Massachusetts, 02723.

The funeral home offers a lighted parking lot which is available on the corner of Boutwell and Pleasant Street, (opposite corner of the funeral home) and our facility has a handicap-accessible ramp and entrance.

A repast will be held at the Freetown VFW, 89 Middleboro Road East Freetown, Massachusetts, 02717 following the service from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial contribution to Boston Children's Hospital at Boston Children's Honor & Memorial Giving here: https://shorturl.at/1nPVq

We encourage all who knew and loved Duane to share their memories and upload photos to his memorial page, as we celebrate his life and the joy he brought to ours.

Services are humbly entrusted into the care of Southcoast Funeral Homes at Ferreira Chapel "Celebrating A Life Well Lived"