Ruth Denise Duncan

Ruth Denise Duncan, age 82, passed away peacefully at her residence on Tuesday, September 29, 2026.

Born on October 28, 1943, Denise was the daughter of the late Thomas Lee and Mary Randolph Lee. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Eugene Lee and Jay Will Lee; and her sisters, Wilma Palmore, Ethel Shelton, Gladys Ann Kuykendall, and Margie Edwards.

Denise found joy in many things throughout her life. She was a fan of NASCAR, especially Jeff Gordon, loved her country music and Braves baseball and swooned over George Strait and Javi Lopez. She doted on and loved her many dogs, Snoopy, Obie, Elmo, Leo, and Beegee. Denise was a graduate of Appalachian State University and cherished her years as a 2nd grade teacher at Mountain View Elementary where she was awarded teacher of the year. She spoke fondly of her fellow teachers and the friendships, especially Pat and Flo. Above all, she was a loving mother and grandmother who treasured the time she spent with her family, especially her two granddaughters.

Left to cherish her memory are her son, Bobby Duncan (Sara); her daughter, Michelle Duncan; her grandchildren, Lilian Duncan and Addison Copeland; her brothers, James Lee (Debbie) and Charles Lee; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In keeping with Denise’s wishes, no services will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a local humane society in Denise’s memory.