Joseph Douglas Duncan, Jr., of Franklin, N.C., known to family and friends as Doug or “Dunc”, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love and service. Born on November 6, 1949, in Tavares, Florida, Doug was the eldest child of the late Joseph Douglas Duncan, Sr. and Virginia Gregory Duncan.
A proud graduate of Tavares High School (Class of 1967), Doug went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from The Citadel in Charleston, SC in 1971. He furthered his education by earning a master’s degree in English from the University of Arkansas.
Doug’s commitment to service led him to join the United States Air Force upon graduation from The Citadel. Over 12 years of distinguished service, he achieved the rank of Captain. His military career included the critical responsibility of holding the launch key for a Titan II missile near Little Rock, Arkansas, during the Cold War. He later served as an English professor and soccer coach at the Virginia Military Institute in Lexington, VA, sharing his knowledge and passion with future leaders.
Following his military service, Doug built a long and successful career with Container Corporation of America, navigating numerous mergers and acquisitions over 35 years before retiring on July 30, 2014.
Doug loved Scotland and the Scottish heritage. He also loved to travel with Patti, Scotland, France, Italy, England, and Jamicia are just a few of their world travels. Reading, movies, woodworking, and music were some of Doug’s favorite things to do.
In 1993, Doug married the love of his life, Patti, and together they built a beautiful family with six children. Doug’s greatest joy was being a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His 13 grandchildren, along with his many nieces and nephews, adored their “Dunc” and Uncle Doug, and his presence will be deeply missed.
Doug is survived by his loving wife of 31 years, Patti Duncan; his children, Joe Duncan, Kristine Wortham (Louis), Eddie Patten (Julie), Melanie Patten, and Beth Oscarhaven (Matt); his brothers, Scott Duncan and Bruce Duncan; and 13 grandchildren.
He was predeceased by his parents, his brother Greg Duncan, and his son Eric Rasmussen.
A visitation will be held 11:00 AM Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home.
A celebration of Doug’s life will be held on May 9th at 11:00 a.m. at Elk’s Lodge 1578 in Tavares, Florida, the town where his journey began.
In lieu of flowers, Patti requests that donations be made in Doug’s memory to The Elizabeth House in Flat Rock, NC, 581 S Allen Rd. Flat Rock, NC 28731 honoring his generous spirit and commitment to helping others.
Online condolences can be left at www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com
Bryant-Grant Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the Duncan family.