Mary Lee Duncan, aged 82, passed away peacefully at her home on November 9, 2024. Born on April 3, 1942, in Waterloo, Iowa, Mary grew up to be a beloved figure in her community, touching the lives of many throughout her years in Varna, Illinois, where she graduated from Mid County High School.
A dedicated custodian at McCracken County, Mary retired after committing over seven years to serving Concord Elementary and fifteen years to Heath High School with distinction. Her work ethic was only surpassed by her devotion to Kevil First Baptist Church. As a member, she poured her heart into teaching Sunday School, leading the youth group with passion, and heading the hospitality committee with warmth and grace.
Mary's love for the community extended to volunteering at His House and active participation in the Woman's Missionary Union. Her interests reflected her love for life and nature; she found pleasure in nurturing her garden, especially her cherished roses, and would spend sunny afternoons merrily atop her John Deere mower.
Not one to sit still, Mary tackled sudoku puzzles with the same gusto she reserved for outdoor adventures. A connoisseur of the written word, she enjoyed reading the Bible. She loved to cook with her biscuits and gravy being everyone's preferred dish. With an ever-present smile, a generous laugh, and a joke always at the ready, Mary remained a kid at heart.
Mary is survived by two daughters, Anna Marie Pavy (Dan) of Peru, Illinois and Betty Dudley (David) of Spring Valley, Illinois; one son, Gene Bryant of Murphysboro, Illinois; her caregivers, granddaughter, Sabrina Dancy and great-granddaughter, Alexyss Dancy; twelve grandchildren and several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, James Duncan; her parents, Harold and Gladys Burnell; three sons, Danny Duncan, John Bryant and Richard Lee Bryant; daughter-in-law, Rosey Duncan; and one sister, Bonnie Renken.
Graveside services will be held at 11:30 am on Saturday, November 16, 2024 at Bethel Cumberland Presbyterian Church Cemetery.
Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until 11:00 am on Saturday, November 16, 2024 at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donation to: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or The Gideon's International, 50 Century Blvd, Nashville, TN 37214.
You may leave a message for the family or light a candle at www.milnerandorr.com.
