Ralph Duncan

It is written in the Book of Life at our birth when we depart this life. Today we’ve come to honor the life and homegoing of our father, grandfather, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, friend, and former husband. First Sergeant Ralph Duncan was born April 6, 1952 in Brooksville, FL to Mary Duncan. He departed this life on September 16, 2019 at Lexington County Medical Center after an extended illness. He found a brave and determine fight to become whole again.

During his early years, he was reared by his maternal grandmother, Bertha Duncan. His mother was also in his life during these years. As he got older, he went to live with a devout loving cousin, Hamp Duncan and his wife Nolly Duncan. During his later teens he went to live with his maternal grandfather, Alexander Duncan in Brooksville, FL. He lovingly called his aunt Connie “Dee Dee” Villard, momma. The old African proverb holds true, it takes a village to raise a child. This was proven true with Ralph and his upbringing. He was always treated as another one of his aunts, uncles, and cousins’ children.

Ralph graduated from Hernado High School in Brooksville, FL in 1971. Upon the urging of his grandfather, he immediately enlisted in the US Army and began a career which spanned over 20 years.  At retirement, he had reached the rank of E7. During his career he was stationed stateside as well as in Germany and Japan. He was proud to be a soldier and was always dashing in his uniform. He also retired from Canteen Vending.

To many he was known as Rabbit and to some Rabbo! You couldn’t ask for a more pleasing and pleasant personality in a person. His demeanor was always upbeat. His generosity was limitless.

To his military family let it be known that your camaraderie and brotherhood was a highlight in his life. He spoke fondly of you and maintained many relationships through the years after retirement. We all will sorely miss the charisma and essence of Ralph. Remember: old soldiers never die; they just fade away! He will forever be in our hearts and spirit. Farewell.

Ralph was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Duncan; and his maternal grandparents, Bertha Duncan and Alexander Duncan.

Ralph leaves to cherish his memories, Alex (Kristen) Jamison, Perresia Harrison, Jacqueline Harrison, Chymon Nelson, Vaquan Nelson, Amanda Duncan, Ralph Duncan, Kendra Douglas, Lanitra Capers, and Derrick Duncan; 14 grandchildren; three aunts, Leslie (Willie) Pollin, Connie Villard, and Frances George; devoted brother/cousin, Johnny Taylor; a devoted sister/cousin, Essie Mae Owen (Kenny) Waldhour; sister, Paula Duncan and Marsha (Samuel) Cubero; and a very special devoted friend, Debra Green.

The family would like to express gratitude to Andrea Duncan for all of her effortless work and dedication for Ralph’s wellbeing.

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