Jerome Alan Duncan

Lt. Col. Jerome Alan Duncan, U.S. Army, Ret., aged 72, of Statham, Georgia, passed away on January 25, 2025. Jerry pursued a career in service to country and community; an Army officer and recipient of 20 medals and commendations, decorated law enforcement officer, and award-winning criminal justice instructor. But Jerry devoted his life to the happiness of his “family, and love must be the primary focus.”

“Jerry’s flame isn’t gone but passed on to so many, especially us. And we are all better because of him,” said his wife and son.

Born in Atlanta to WWII veterans Staff Sgt. Joe Lee Duncan and Capt. Louise Black Duncan, Jerry graduated from Headland High School and Jacksonville State University with a Bachelor of Science degree, special honors in law enforcement.

As a military police officer, he earned his Ranger tab and deployed to Seoul, Korea, while earning a Master of Public Administration from JSU. Upon active-duty separation, he served as a deputy sheriff for Greenville County and police office for Simpsonville, South Carolina, while obtaining a Bachelor’s in Accounting from Furman University.

After marrying his wife and the birth of his son, the “two great blessings of my life,” Jerry reentered the Army as a counterintelligence officer. Upon retirement, he began a third career as a criminal justice instructor in North and South Carolina.

Jerry enjoyed a retirement filled with friends, family, pets, travel, and countless hours on his Harley, finally returning home to Georgia in 2020. He was an Eagle Scout, an avid motorcyclist, adventurer, animal lover, and to everyone he met, loving, kind, empathetic, and funny.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 43 years, Barbara, his son, Jeffrey, his sister, Janice Krishon, and his beloved nieces Wendy Merrell, Amanda Arnold, and Brianna Haston. A celebration of life is to be announced. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local animal shelter.