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BORN
1934
DIED
2025
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UPCOMING SERVICE
Betty Duncan Obituary
January 3, 1934 - May 16, 2025
A memorial service for Betty Duncan will be held on Saturday, September 13th at 1pm at College Park Christian Church at 116 North Cottage Ave, Normal, IL 61761. The family invites you to join us in remembering Betty's life.
Betty Haygood Duncan passed away peacefully on May 16, 2025, in Stillwater, Minn. She was 91 years old. Born in the small town of Greenville, Ala. in 1934, Betty carried with her a lilting, graceful Southern accent and a warm, open-hearted spirit until her final days. She met the love of her life, Bob Duncan, and together they built a life full of love, faith, and family. Betty and Bob raised four daughters, Julie, Lisa, Lori, and Amy, in Normal, Ill., where Betty also worked for many years as an administrative assistant at what was then Mennonite Hospital. Betty and Bob were active and devoted members of their church and community, creating a welcoming home filled with laughter and hospitality. Betty's love of nature was evident in her beautifully tended yard and the flowers she so carefully grew. She had a passion for tennis, a talent for gathering people around her dinner table, and a heart that was always open to others. Throughout her life, Betty served as a mentor and dear friend to many women - relationships that endured across time and distance, evidenced by the heartfelt letters she continued to receive even after moving to Minnesota later in life. Her wisdom, kindness, and steadfast support left a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to know her. In her later years, Betty cared for Bob with fierce devotion as he faced Alzheimer's, keeping him at home as long as she possibly could. After his passing, she relocated to Minnesota to be closer to family, where she embraced new friendships and continued to bring joy to those around her. Even in her final years, Betty could be found playing cards, sharing stories, and helping plant flowers at the care facility she called home.
Betty is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bob Duncan; her sister, Anne Glenn; and her brother, Bernard Haygood. She is survived by her sister, Jane Srygley; and daughters, Julie Duncan, Lisa (Steve) Barnhart, Lori (Brian) Arnold, and Amy (Rob) Lawrence; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren, all of whom were blessed by her unwavering love and strength. Betty's legacy is one of faith, friendship, and enduring grace. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memorial Events
for Betty Duncan
Funeral services provided by:
Calvert & Metzler Memorial Home Bloomington Chapel1115 East Washington Street, Bloomington, IL 61701
Memories and Condolences
for Betty Duncan
Sponsored by Calvert & Metzler Memorial Home Bloomington Chapel.
11 Entries
Diane Short
June 26, 2025
I worked with Betty at Mennonite Hospital under the leadership of Leon Schmucker. We shared our faith, love of tennis and she was a dear person who I was so saddened to hear passed away. My deepest sympathy to all of you. I rejoice in the knowledge that she loved our Lord and Saviour and is in Heaven, where I will see her again someday. My prayers for you all.
Arturo Rodriguez
June 8, 2025
Our sorrows are with you. Peace and prayers.
Pat and Dan Fitzgerald
June 7, 2025
What a gentle and caring woman she was! We so enjoyed being a neighbor on the Broadway block and getting to know her and Bob. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Pat and Dan Fitzgerald
Jackie Deffenbaugh
June 6, 2025
To Betty´s family
I was so sad to hear of Betty´s passing. What a wonderful neighbor she was!
I saw the endearing love she had for Bob as his illness progressed. She was a care warrior!
I enjoyed visits with her, usually over something she baked. I loved her gentle and accepting demeanor. A southern gem
When my husband and I first moved onto the street, we had a holiday get together for the neighbors. Betty and Bob had an event to go to but kindly dropped by for a bit. They were the most stunning couple, like a page out of old Hollywood.
Though years apart in age, Betty felt like a kindred spirit. She adored you all.
What a gift to all who were privileged to cross her path.
Sherry Jones
June 6, 2025
Sending my deepest condolences to Betty´s family. I had the privilege of being in her presence on a trip to Florida with Lori. Betty exuded a gracious and loving spirit and was a joy to be around. Love, hugs and prayers to each of you.
Kay Wilson
June 6, 2025
Dear Family,
I am so sorry to hear about the death of Betty. I seemed to eventually lose contact with her after she moved to Minnesota. She was indeed a woman with southern charm and hospitality. Betty and I were close at one period of time when we both shared the challenge of having a husband with dementia. She drove me to Alzheimer´s workshops and we were in constant touch via email. It was hard watching our men slowly decline in mind and body. We shared our problems and solutions from time to time. I still remember when Bob thought there was a stranger in the house that kept appearing when he looked into mirrors. She was brave and kept her sense of humor with him until he passed. She always looked elegant and knew exactly how to act in any situation. And her southern accent was delightful.
My sympathy to all of you,
Kay Wilson
Paula, Alan Monroe and family
June 6, 2025
Dear Betty's Daughters and Family, Please accept our deepest condolences. Betty was a joy. Our granddaughter viewed her as a great grandmother. We spent many hours chatting and laughing. We have so many fond memories of her. Our pool time was wonderful.
BA
June 6, 2025
Good obit. Wonderful photo.
Well-done!
Charles and Emma Brashear
June 6, 2025
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. She will be missed by all of us that knew her.
Jody Seip
June 6, 2025
I loved her so. And Bob. May their reunion be sweet as they fly high in Glory.
Judy Matens
June 6, 2025
Betty was such a lovely lady. Worked with Betty at hospital many years ago and we continued our friendship for many years after. I often thought about her and still make some of the recipes she shared with me. She loved to bring in something she made and everyone enjoyed it. May her daughters find peace in knowing they had the best mom ever!
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