Josephine Ann Duncan

Josephine Ann Duncan was born on December 12, 1937, in Chicago, Illinois, the youngest of six children born to Bernice and George Miller. She was proud of her Irish heritage and carried that pride in her spirit and strength all her life. Though she stood just 5’2”, Jo’s presence filled every room. She was sharp, spirited, loving, and impossible to ignore.

In 1959, she married the love of her life, Donald Duncan. Their marriage lasted more than sixty years and was rooted in loyalty, humor, and deep devotion. They built a life side by side, steady and strong.

Chicago shaped her. Even after Don’s career brought them South for more than fifty years, she remained a Chicago girl at heart. She never lost her windy city edge—or her loyalty to the Cubs. Watching games with Don & her family was sacred time. They waited decades for a World Series win and savored every minute of it.

Jo’s greatest calling was her family. Being a mother was her joy and her focus. She raised five amazing children with grit, laughter, discipline, and constant presence. There was no staff, no shortcuts—just Jo. Later, when grandchildren arrived, she embraced her most cherished title: “Gaga.” It fit her heart. She showed up to games, celebrations, and everyday moments with pride and fierce love. Nothing mattered more to her.

She had the gift of storytelling. From CEOs to toddlers, no one was safe from a perfectly timed story. Humor was how she connected. She made people feel seen. She made them laugh. She made them stay awhile.

Jo shared a lifelong bond with her late sister and best friend, Rose Lobsinger. Their closeness was built on memories, loyalty, and love. She also treasured her extended family in Atlanta, Chicago and Florida remaining deeply connected to them throughout her life.

Her Catholic faith was the center of who she was. It guided her decisions, steadied her through hardship, and shaped the way she loved others. Her faith was quiet but unwavering. It grounded her marriage, her motherhood, and the way she lived each day.

Later in life, she could often be found surrounded by family, playing bingo or trivia and laughing with friends. She was known as “the life of the party” and will be greatly missed at her senior community.

Josephine passed away peacefully on February 15, 2026, at the age of 88, after a short battle with cancer. Her family finds comfort knowing she is reunited with Don, right on time for baseball season, and resting in the peace she trusted in her whole life.

She is survived by her children and grandchildren:

• Dawn Meeks (Allen), daughter Taylor

• David Duncan (Tracy), children Davis, Keely, and Ava

• Daniel Duncan (Brad)

• Douglas Duncan (Brittany), children Samantha, Lexi, and Dougie

• Dorene Duncan, son Duncan

Jo’s life was rooted in love, strengthened by faith, and centered on family. That legacy carries on in her children & grandchildren. To honor Jo’s life, gather your family close and offer kindness freely—small acts done with love, the way she lived.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Monastery of the Holy Spirit (trappist.net), a place that reflects the quiet devotion and steady faith that shaped her life.