James Vernon Duncan

James Vernon "Jim" Duncan, 90, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2025, in the arms of his loving wife, Donna Kay Duncan, with his son, David, by his side. He was born in Oceanside, NY, to the late Alice Barbara (Myers) and Sidney Vernon Duncan.

Jim is survived by his wife, Donna Kay, and his children: James W. (Barbara), Thomas (Tracey), Laura Duncan, David (Tina), Cynthia Duncan, Amy Barber (Larry), and Matthew Duncan. He is also survived by his stepchildren: Steve Therrell (Stacy), Jack Edwards (Michelle), and Jennifer Crawshaw (Brent). He was a proud grandfather to Andrew, Catherine, Tyler, Ashlyn, and Charlie, and a great-grandfather to Nora. He was also blessed with step-grandchildren Chase, Jordan, Mackie, Davis, Thomas, and Lily Grace.

Jim leaves behind his sister, Barbara Coombs, as well as his sister-in-law, Lisa Crafton (George). He is also remembered by nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Jim graduated from Duke University with a degree in Business and played basketball on a scholarship. For a brief time, he also played on a semipro team. His love for sports continued throughout his life, he was an avid athlete who enjoyed tennis, running, biking, and, most of all, golf. He also never missed a chance to watch a game, especially football, and loved making friendly bets with his sons.

Jim loved to fish. Whether casting a line in Montauk or St. Pete, he was happiest on the water. One of his proudest moments was catching a big marlin off Montauk, a trophy that hung in his Long Island home for years.

But more than anything, Jim loved the sun. He was a true sun worshiper, always happiest at the beach or by the pool. Whether swimming, relaxing with family, or simply soaking up the warmth, you could always find him in his favorite spots, enjoying the sunshine.

Jim had an adventurous spirit and a love for travel, spending time in Sapphire Lakes, NC; Acapulco, Mexico; and Key West, FL. He enjoyed good company, a good Scotch, and good stories, always making memories along the way.

After graduating, Jim followed in his father's footsteps, building a successful career in the Wall Street financial industry. He was a Senior Executive in the Municipal Bond Departments at Dean Witter Reynolds and Morgan Stanley. After moving to Florida, he continued his career at Raymond James Financial in St. Petersburg. He was also a member of the Florida Bond Club.

Jim was a longtime member of several golf clubs, including Winged Foot Golf Club in Mamaroneck, NY, and St. Petersburg Country Club (formerly Lakewood Country Club), where he had been a member for over 45 years. He served on various golf committees and played a key role in organizing Bruce Weitz's Charity Golf Tournament to benefit ACTS.

He was also honored to be invited into the "Coconuts" Golf Group, a fraternity of gentlemen from the financial industry in New York and St. Petersburg. Membership was by invitation only, and the group hosted an annual "Coconuts" Invitational Tournament. Today, Jim’s legacy continues as his son and grandson carry on the Green Jackets tradition.

A special thank you to George and Shelia King, who became part of our family over the past two years, helping Donna Kay care for Jim at home. Their kindness, dedication, and support have meant the world to us, and they will always be a part of our family.

Donna Kay and the family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Jim's hospice team—Scott, Sharyl, Stacy, Cheryl, Travis, and the Empath Pharmacy staff—who provided exceptional care and comfort during his final days.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim Duncan's honor to:

Empath Suncoast Hospice

5771 Roosevelt Blvd.

Clearwater, FL 33760

Jim Duncan left this world much like he lived - surrounded by family, in the warmth of the sun, and with a life full of stories worth telling. A private celebration of life will be held in March for family and friends.