Jerry Duncan

COLUMBIA - R.J. "Jerry" Duncan, 80, died Oct. 9, 2002, at Columbia Regional Hospital.

Born Sept. 9, 1922, in Conway, Ark., son of the late John A. and Lilli Rosalie Mahan Duncan, he had worked for McKay Chevrolet, Tiger Motor Company, Rupp Automotive and Columbia Auto Parts before retiring. He served on the European front, Africa and the Middle East during World War II and had attained the rank of sergeant first class. Duncan was awarded two Bronze Stars and the Purple Heart. He was a life member and past commander of VFW Post 280 and member of Elks Lodge 594.

On Sept. 26, 1942, in Sikeston, he married Verlon Fitzjerrell who preceded him in death in 1990.

Survivors include: one son, Larry Duncan of Columbia; two brothers, Glenn Duncan of Granite City, Ill., and Ralph Wayne Duncan of Memphis, Tenn.; one sister, Joyce Bowen of Memphis; and two grandchildren.

He was also preceded in death by one son, Steve Duncan and two brothers.

Visitation is from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the Memorial Funeral Home in Columbia, where services will be conducted at 1 p.m. Saturday with the Rev. George Mummert, officiating.

Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery in Columbia.