Saundra Duncan

Saundra Duncan

Ventura, CA

Saundra Duncan died July 7, 2016 following a 13 year battle with stage 4 lung cancer. She fought hard and rebounded from several rounds of chemo to enjoy trips throughout the world with Craig, her husband of 45 years, and attended countless special events of the people she loved.

Saundra, age 70, was a woman loved by all who knew her. Born in Texas, she was raised in Rochester, NY. A family of three girls: Saundra, Jacalyn and Diane (deceased). She met her husband Craig in Rochester and they were married in 1970. Sandy settled in Ventura in 1974.

Her career as a child protective social worker was important and meaningful to her and spanned more than 2 decades. During her years as a Social worker, Supervisor and Program Manager she obtained a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Cal Lutheran and an MSW degree from USC. Sandy was a courageous, ethical, and loyal person.

In her career she spearheaded innovation, including the training unit, which has now grown to multiple units. Sandy wore many hats, often at the same time. She worked the child protective system from emergency response to adoptions. Children loved her and would talk to her about the most painful things in their lives.

She excelled at guiding other social workers. She was a mentor to many, giving encouragement, support, and guidance in the most difficult cases. Saundra was so kind and giving she will be especially missed by her many friends.

Saundra had no children but was deeply attached to a variety of cats and dogs. Her favorite pets include her beloved dog Lily, age16, and her beloved cat Petunia, age22.

Sandy loved to read and derived much pleasure from her book club that she hosted in her home until recently. She held a group of retired friends together with her monthly luncheons that she called the "Lunch Bunch." There's nothing Sandy enjoyed more than vigorous discussion of politics and women's issues.

Special thanks to nephews Austin, Chase and Jeff for the loving care they gave her during her last few weeks. A Celebration of Life will be held at Temple Beth Torah at a date and time to be announced later. Arrangements are under the direction and care of the JOSEPH P. REARDON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE, Ventura, Ca.