Nola Kay Harris Duncan

1938 ~ 2022

Nola Kay Harris Duncan, daughter of Herbert Fielding Harris and Katheryn Green, passed away February 3, 2022. She was born October 5, 1938, in Lava Hot Springs, Idaho.

While growing up in McCammon, Idaho, Nola was active in 4-H and band. She graduated from Marsh Valley High School and then Brigham Young University in Education. She later taught at an elementary school and eventually English at West Jordan High School and Salt Lake Community College.

Nola and Robert were married on May 31, 1962 in the Salt Lake Temple. They made their life together in West Jordan and raised three sons. Robert preceded her in death by 3 months and 3 weeks.

Nola loved music and taught piano lessons for decades. She was a dedicated homemaker. Each week while her boys were young, she baked fresh bread. She also canned lots of fruits and vegetables grown by her husband, to help economize. She had a good sense of humor and was frequently joking around about something.

She willingly served in various church callings, including in her younger years as Ward and Stake Relief Society President, and in various music-related positions throughout her life such as Ward Choir Director. She had a love for family history, loved sharing stories about her ancestors, and could frequently be found at the Family History center.

She was a long-time resident of West Jordan and participated in various organizations such as Community Council, the West Jordan City Planning Commission and helped to write the history of the city.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Robert; two great-grandsons; and her parents.

She is survived by her younger brother Jeff; three sons, Robert (Janet Alldredge), David (Kathleen Freeman), and Bryan; as well as nine grandchildren (Tanner, Nathan, Garrett, Benjamin, Alexis, Sarah, Ryan, Jacob, Katie); and four great-grandchildren.

We thank healthcare professionals at Intermountain Healthcare as well as friends, family, and neighbors for their kind service to Nola.

A viewing will be held Tuesday, February 15, 2022, from 6 to 8 p.m. at McDougal Funeral Home, 4330 S. Redwood Road in Taylorsville. Funeral services will be Wednesday, February 16th, 11:30 a.m., with a viewing prior starting at 10 a.m. at the church on the corner of 2700 W. and 7000 S. Interment at the West Jordan City Cemetery, 1300 W. 7800 S.

So that all might feel comfortable attending, we respectfully request the wearing of masks at the services. We anticipate a video link to be posted on the McDougal Funeral Home site prior to services.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Salt Lake Tribune from Feb. 10 to Feb. 13, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for Nola Duncan

Sponsored by McDougal Funeral Home.

10 Entries

Jeff Dickison

March 3, 2022

My sincerest condolences to Nola's family and friends who mourn her passing and miss her presence. "Mrs. Duncan" was my colleague in the English department as I began my career nearly three decades ago. She was a terrific teacher who exuded kindness and compassion for everyone. Her dedication and positivity were a wonderful example. She leaves a legacy of influence in a very tangible way throughout West Jordan and beyond.

Natalie (Gustafson) Argyle

February 12, 2022

Many great memories sitting at her piano with her by side. Recitals in the front room. Yummy treats after.
She also served with my mom in the stake RS presidency. She is full of compassion, positivity, and honesty.
May God bless the family with comfort and peace.
Rest easy best piano teacher ever!

Arliss Winder

February 12, 2022

It's was a heart hurt to hear of Nola's passing. She has been a mentor in my life. Someone with a constant drive to be up and doing. She cared about people and had such wisdom and an understanding heart. A visit with Nola was always worthwhile!
I marveled at her diligence whether she was tackling a community issue, family history, a church calling or leading the ward choir.
Nola was truly a woman that turned lemons to lemonade, it was her nature to have a positive outlook and work difficult issues out without a grudge. Nola was an amazing woman and will really be missed!
Your family has a great role model.

Linda and Doug Jones

February 12, 2022

Nola is a wonderful person. She was a good piano teacher for three older sons. She went back to teaching at the high school so we had to find a new piano teacher for our two, younger boys. She was always so pleasant, cheerful, and friendly. She did a lot of service in our Ward, Stake, neighborhood, and community. We love Nola and will miss her.

Helen Robbins

February 12, 2022

I really loved Nola and appreciated knowing her and Bob. I worked with Nola in the music in the Ward for 40 years. I will miss her sincerely. My love to the family.

AnnaJo Mason

February 11, 2022

I loved Nola. My sister, Janet, married her oldest son, Robbie, and they were the first of my siblings to get married. Bob and Nola made such an impact on us. They opened their hearts and home to our big family on so many occasions. They seemed to remember our names- which was amazing in itself! And Nola made us feel welcome if we visited for the weekend, popped up to see them in their stalwart seats in the BYU Cougar Stadium, even picking me up from the airport once when I was visiting on another occasion. So kind, welcoming, and hospitable! We are sorry for the Duncan boys losing their sweet mother and hope it is a comfort to know she was loved by so many. So sorry for your loss.

Colleen Strong

February 11, 2022

I am so sorry, but so happy that she is with Bob again. I love her, right after I was baptized Nola came to welcome me to the church. She was the Relief Society President. That was 1972, I have looked up to her ever since then. She will be missed.

Deanne Curtis

February 11, 2022

I first met Nola when she was the PTA President at West Jordan High, where I worked. She was a fun, energetic and dedicated lady. We both were learning how to play golf and we played many rounds together at Mountain View! I have such fond memories of her and all the wonderful things she accomplished. Sincere condolences to her family and friends.

Elizabeth (Chapman) Schroeder

February 10, 2022

I loved Nola so very much. I took piano lessons from her and I can still smell the bread baking in the oven. Nola and my mom were dear friends. While they would be upstairs talking, Robbie and I would go downstairs and play in the barber chair. I respected Nola so much. I really looked up to her. She made a big difference in my life. God bless you Nola. I love you.

Jeff Buckner

February 10, 2022

I really liked Nola. I've often told the kids she reminds me of my mom, and if someone wants wants a job done right and on time, Nola is the person for that job. I will miss her.

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