Donald R. Duncan, age 88, passed away peacefully in Springfield, Missouri, on May 31, 2024. He was surrounded by loving family members. Don was born on November 22, 1935, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Walter and Lillie Duncan. He graduated from Missouri State University in 1957.

After proudly serving in the United States Army, Don married Linda Field on August 16, 1963. He later graduated from the Washington University School of Law and was a partner in the law firm of Turner, Reid, Duncan, Loomer & Patton for more than 50 years. His colleagues were also lifelong friends, who were exceedingly good to him through his final days. When Don was awarded the Purcell Professionalism Award by the Missouri Bar Association, he was accurately described as "a rare combination of immense legal talent and advocacy, and the highest standards of integrity, professionalism and honor." In his professional capacity, he was also director of the Springfield Metropolitan Bar Association and special attorney general for the State of Missouri.

Beyond his legal practice, Don served the community in many ways. Among other examples, he was a deacon at First Baptist Church in Springfield and served on leadership boards for Cox Medical Center, William Jewell College, Ozark Christian Counseling Service, Goals for Springfield and Windermere Baptist Assembly. He also taught at Missouri State University and was a founder and board member of Ronald McDonald Charities of the Ozarks, Inc.

More important, Don was an outstanding husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He gave generously of his time, resources, and wisdom, while resisting any credit for his profound impact on countless people. He preferred that his acts of service to others be kept quiet, as modeled by Christ. He poured himself into meeting the needs of people around him and expected nothing in return. Don enjoyed spending time with family, working with his hands, reading Scottish history, teaching the Bible, and playing with family dogs. He also enjoyed a good laugh, but never at the expense of someone else. Don was a strong and kind gentleman to his very final breath. It is an understatement to say that he will be missed.

Don was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Doyle Duncan. He is survived by Linda, his wife of 60 years; sons Greg and Jon and their wives Amy and Michelle; grandchildren Stewart Duncan (Alana), Emily Gaumnitz (John), Lillie Duncan, and Max Duncan; and great granddaughter Vera Gaumnitz.

Visitation for Don will be held on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, from 10:00 to 12:00 at First Baptist Church in Springfield, Missouri. Arrangements have been entrusted to Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church, William Jewell College, Missouri Baptist University, or Cox Health Foundation.