Ira William "Bill" Duncan

Bill was born on July 11, 1934, in Lumberton, North Carolina. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 59 years, Betsy Duncan; his daughter, Patti Russell; his parents, Ira and Julia Duncan; his sister, Louise Hamiter; and his brother, Neill Duncan.

Bill grew up in Maxton, North Carolina, and graduated from Maxton High School in 1953. He cherished his childhood and the many lifelong friendships he made there. Family was everything to Bill, and those close family bonds remained strong throughout his life. The Duncans got together every chance they had, no matter where they lived. As a young boy, he helped on the family farm to milk the family cows before school and delivered it to families throughout town. He met Betsy, the "only love of his life", when he was 15 years old and she was 13.

If you knew Bill, you knew he was one of the sweetest men you would ever meet. He would truly give you the shirt off his back and was always thinking of others before himself. His kindness, generosity, and gentle spirit touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Bill was an avid sports fan and excelled in football and basketball during high school. Though standing just 5’11”, he was known for out-rebounding much taller players. A devoted NC State Wolfpack fan, one of his greatest sports memories was watching the Wolfpack defeat UCLA for the national championship.

After graduating from high school, Bill proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1954 to 1956. While stationed in Nuremberg, Germany, he served as a Quartermaster and continued playing the sports he loved, including basketball and badminton, winning several doubles championships. He loved his time in Germany, especially traveling while on leave. He remained active throughout his life, playing church softball into his forties and recreational basketball for many years.

Bill was a faithful member of Matthews Baptist Church in Matthews, North Carolina, where he served as a deacon and volunteered in numerous church ministries.

He loved life’s simple pleasures—good home-cooked meals, especially those that reminded him of his mother’s cooking. One of his favorite meals was as simple as a tomato and mayonnaise sandwich on fresh bread. Bill even taught Betsy how to cook!

After returning home from the Army, Bill settled in Charlotte, where he spent most of his adult life. He and a childhood friend briefly owned a gas station before Bill began an 11-year career with Edgecomb Steel. He later discovered his true calling in real estate, spending the next 39 years helping countless families find homes. He had many repeat clients because of his honesty and integrity. He first worked with Berryhill Realty before co-founding Moore & Duncan Realtors. Later, he joined Century 21 and eventually retired from Century 21 Vision Realty. Following retirement, Bill and Betsy made Southport, North Carolina, their home. Retirement brought opportunities to travel, spend time with family, and enjoy life at a slower pace.

Bill is survived by his son, Brad Duncan and wife Jan of Mint Hill, North Carolina; his daughter, Libby and husband George of Southport, North Carolina; his five grandchildren, Matthew Russell of Lancaster, South Carolina; Ralph Russell and wife Francesca of Angier, North Carolina; Blake Bond of Southport, North Carolina; JD Bond of Raleigh, North Carolina; and Madison Duncan of Charlotte, North Carolina; and his great-grandchildren, Ashlyn Russell and Scarlett Russell.

Bill’s legacy is one of unwavering faith, quiet strength, humility, and unconditional love for his family and friends. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished by all who knew him.

A celebration of his life will be held at 2:00 pm on Thursday, July 9, 2026 at Mt. Harmony Baptist Church, 2817 Mt Harmony Church Rd, Matthews, NC 28105. The family will have visitation immediately following the service at the church.

Online condolences may be made at www.peacocknewnamwhite.com

Peacock - Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Service, Southport, North Carolina.