Patricia Gavin Duncan McCall

Patricia Gavin Duncan McCall, age 84, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2025, in Harvey, Louisiana. She gained her heavenly wings and was received into the loving arms of our Lord, entering eternal rest.
Patricia was born on August 31, 1941, in New Orleans, Louisiana to Reverend Willie Gavin and Irene Sholes Gavin. As a young child, she was presented for Christian baptism and began her lifelong walk with God. At the age of 12, after Christian teachings from her devoted parents and Godparents, she was received into full membership of the church, entitled to all the rights and privileges of the congregation. This early foundation shaped her unwavering faith and spirituality. Her gift for music was a special talent she shared generously. As a teenager, Patricia played the organ and directed choirs at St. Peter Carrollton A.M.E. Church under the pastoral leadership of her father.
Determined, adventurous, and full of promise, Patricia excelled academically and set high standards for herself. She graduated from Walter L. Cohen Senior High School in 1958 and earned her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Xavier University in 1962. She later continued her academic journey and received a Master of Arts with a certification as a Reading Specialist from Xavier University in 1983. Her advanced studies inspired her to create helpful learning tools and reading programs that encouraged children to enjoy books and find confidence in their abilities.
On August 21, 1966, Patricia united in holy matrimony with Mr. Baldwin Lloyd Duncan. To this union, two daughters were born: Irenata Duncan, and Jaquetta Duncan Wright. Patricia was blessed with the joy of two granddaughters, Irielle Duncan and Janiyah Wright, who lovingly carry her spirit, and legacy forward.
Patricia began her teaching career in Cleveland, Ohio, where she served as an elementary educator for five years. Upon returning home to New Orleans, she continued her calling at Dwight D. Eisenhower Elementary School with the Orleans Parish School Board. During her distinguished career, she received numerous awards recognizing her excellence, creativity and tireless dedication to education.
After 37 ½ impactful years as an educator, Patricia retired in 2000. Even in retirement, her devotion to teaching never ceased. She launched her own tutoring business, providing one-on-one support to children to strengthen their reading skills and build confidence. Throughout the years, Patricia was often approached by former students who fondly remembered how she inspired their love for learning and helped shape their educational and career journeys.
Upon returning to New Orleans in 1970, Patricia joined Union Bethel A.M.E. Church with her daughters. Her love for God and music continued to shine brightly as she served as a pianist, participated in Sunday School, sang faithfully in the choir, and directed the Vacation Bible School program for many years, enriching the spiritual lives of children within the church and the surrounding community. After Hurricane Katrina and the relocation of Union Bethel A.M.E. Church to Baton Rouge, LA, Patricia joined St. John A.M.E Church, became an active member, class leader and most recently served on the Board of Stewards. Family life was priority for Patricia and she later married her lifelong friend, Arthur McCall, on October 12, 2004.
Patricia has always been involved in her community. During her time in Cleveland, she was initiated into Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Her sorority sisters became aware of her gift for gardening and she was lovingly known as "Green Thumb." Her backyard was always filled with beautiful greenery, fresh vegetables and fruit. Patricia was also initiated into Herman P. Bush Chapter #173 Order of Eastern Star on March 3, 1996, where she served as an active member in many leadership roles, including Worthy Matron and Treasurer. Additionally, during the Annual Communication of Esther Grand Chapter OES, she served as Chairperson of the Rules Committee. Patricia served her community well, being a Poll Commissioner in Orleans Parish for many years. One of the highlights of her life as a New Orleanian was when Patricia was selected and reigned as Queen of the Original Exclusive 20's Social Club.
Patricia is survived by her devoted daughters, Irenata Duncan and Jaquetta Duncan Wright (David); her cherished granddaughters, Irielle Duncan and Janiyah Patricia Wright; her brother, Lloyd Gavin (Eunice); nieces Vanessa Gavin Headen (Theodore) and Karen Gavin-Evans (Jovier); her nephew, Alvin Gavin; her uncle, Elmo Sholes; a host of cousins; her St. John A.M.E Church family; her Order of Eastern Star family; her Orleans Parish School Board colleagues, lifelong friends, and her cherished neighborhood community where she resided for over 50 years. She was preceded in death by her loving parents: her father, Reverend Willie Gavin, who passed in 1974, and her mother, Irene Gavin Sholes, who passed in 1998. They now share a heavenly reunion, rejoicing together in glory and everlasting peace.
Patricia's life was a testament to unwavering faith. She trusted the Lord wholeheartedly, believing in His promises to guide her steps, sustain her through trials, and reward her with eternal salvation. Her walk with God was a shining example of steadfast devotion, resilience, and gratitude for His grace and mercy. May the seeds of love, faith, and knowledge that Patricia planted throughout her life continue to flourish in the hearts of all those she touched. Though her earthly journey has fulfilled its course, she now rests in the eternal peace of the Lord she faithfully served.
Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the Funeral Service at Union Bethel A.M.E., 2321 Thalia Street, New Orleans, Louisiana on Friday, October 31, 2025 at 10:00am. Visitation will begin at 8:30am, Following an OES Ceremony at 9:30am. Internment: Restlawn Park Cemetery, Avondale, LA. Arrangements entrusted to D.W. Rhodes Funeral Home, 3933 Washington Ave., New Orleans, Louisiana 70125. Please visit www.rhodesfuneral.com to sign the online guestbook, share memories and condolences with the family.