Patricia Ann Duncan, 96, of Springfield, Mo, passed away on March 28, 2026. She was born on September 22, 1929, to Thedore and Audry Higgs in Springfield, Missouri.

Mrs. Patricia, as she was known, was a lifelong member of Gibson Chapel Presbyterian Church. She served as the church’s clerk of the session for many years and sang in the church choir. She attended church faithfully until her health became an issue. Mrs. Patricia worked for Harry Cooper Supply for many years as well as Springfield Public Schools. When she stopped working outside of the home, she began an in home daycare. Ms. Patricia was a blessing to many who needed reliable childcare.

Her no nonsense attitude is widely known among her family and friends. She was the original creator of “the look”, especially given to children “acting out in church”. Respect and love for her is often discussed by the many children she helped raise.

She was preceded in death by her husband James H. Duncan, brother Thedore Higgs Jr., children Darrell Whayne McCullum, Tonia Patrice Jackson, and grandson Jamy McCullum

Mrs. Patricia is survived by her sister, Ferba Lofton of Springfield. Her daughters Cheryl (Lynn) Clay, Karen Tureaud, and Audrey Duncan of Springfield, son in law Eric Jackson of Atlanta Georgia. Seven grandchildren; Von Neely, Melissa Tureaud, Arzo Tureaud II, Justin Grant, Natalie Jackson, Keely Jackson, and Micaila Patterson. Denise (Ime) Lofton and Christina Schuler were her only nieces. She was blessed with 15 great grandchildren and 4 great grands and a host of cousins and friends.

A visitation will be held at Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home Thursday, April 2 from 5 to 7pm. A homegoing celebration will be held at Gibson Chapel Presbyterian Church 818 E. Norton Road Friday, April 3 at 11:00am. Interment will follow at Springfield National Cemetery at 1702 E. Seminole Street.