Duncan Norwood Naylor

Duncan Norwood Naylor, 72, passed away unexpectedly on April 13th, 2025, in La Ceja, Colombia, leaving behind a life filled with adventure and love. Born on September 16th, 1952, in Tokyo, Japan, Duncan's father's military service took their family all around the world. Duncan and his family lived in Japan, Germany, and Panama, before returning to the states when Duncan was about thirteen.

After graduating from high school, Duncan went on to obtain his Bachelor's Degree in German from Auburn University, followed by a Bachelor's Degree in Theater from Auburn University, and finally a Master's Degree in Acting from Illinois State University. Eventually, he moved to the Northeast, and settled into a career of project management and consulting in New York City.

During this time, Duncan spent much of his free time sailing with friends, traveling the world, and attending acting classes.

In 1996, Duncan moved to Glen Cove, New York. In 1997, Duncan became a parent when his first child was born. In 1998, he welcomed a second. Duncan was a devoted father-he was never seen without his camera, snapping pictures of his family. In fact, he went on to open his own business, "Digital Printery," which offered services such as photo restoration, brochures and calendars, and other custom printing.

Duncan was very involved with his local church, St. John's of Lattingtown, where he was a member of the choir. He helped orchestrate the monthly newsletter, and always assisted with the annual yard sale.

In 2009, at the age of 57, Duncan began taking salsa lessons at a local dance studio on Long Island. Within a few years, it became an all-consuming passion. After participating in a couple of international competitions, Duncan decided to move down to Panama in 2013. One year later, he moved to Medellin, Colombia.

Duncan would spend the final decade of his life there, in Colombia, completely engrossed in Salsa. He faithfully attended his dance classes and even placed first in several competitions. He loved his life in Colombia and was deeply involved in the local community. He found his purpose as a part-time English teacher, an architect, and a dancer. Duncan was a lifelong learner and adventurer, to the very end.

Duncan is survived by his older sister, Ellen Rebecca Naylor, his two children, Athena Naylor and Persephone Naylor, and many cousins in Louisiana and Alabama. He is preceded in death by both of his parents: his mother, Doris Ruth Naylor-Sullins, and his father, Duncan Norwood Naylor Sr.

Duncan will be remembered by his lust for life. He was a passionate man who was hungry for knowledge and loved to explore. He was a generous and caring individual, and looked to support those around him in their endeavors. Duncan was a loyal friend and a loving father (to both his own children, as well as his chosen children).

Duncan's children would like to extend a special thanks to the friends and family who shared in their father's final years, his familia Colombiano: Daniela, Waldo, Juan, Laura, Alvaro, Mauricio, Beatriz, Hugo, and all of his friends who showed him support and love.