Wanda Gail Duncan

Wanda "Gail" Duncan, a beloved figure in her community, passed away peacefully at her residence on December 13, 2025, at the age of 80. She was born on January 15, 1945, in Mitchell County.

 A devoted member of her community, Gail was a founder and charter member of Going Home Free Will Baptist Church, where she served tirelessly, teaching Sunday School for an impressive total of 54 years. Her commitment to her faith was evident. Her legacy as a 78-year cancer survivor inspires many. Gail's dedication to her church and her compassionate spirit will be deeply missed by those who knew her.

Gail dedicated over 30 years to her passion as a self-employed hairdresser, leaving a lasting impact on her many clients. Her warm demeanor and ability to connect with others made her not just a hairstylist, but a cherished friend to all who visited her salon. Gail was much more than her professional career; she was an amazing cook, sharing her culinary talents with family and friends alike. She is remembered as a loving wife, mother, and grandmother, and she also embraced the role of foster mother. Her joyful spirit extended beyond the home, as she found great joy in singing and uplifted those around her with her melody.

Gail is survived by her loving husband, Bill Duncan, who was by her side for over 60 years. Their marriage was an embodiment of love and devotion, and it reflected in the warmth of their family. She is survived by her son, Rev. Jeff Duncan, and his wife, Angie; her brother, Quentin Buchanan (Shirley); her beloved granddaughter, Savannah Miller, along with her husband, Brandon, and her great-grandchildren, Tori Allison, Evan Allison, Destiny Allison, Emma Allison, Colson Miller, and Laine Miller along with a number of nieces and nephews all who carry forward her legacy of love and kindness. She is also survived by her special friends, Anita Poteat whom she referred to as her "Angel" and Joy Johnson who was like a daughter to her.

Gail is predeceased by her parents, Dewey Buchanan and Lola Grace Howell Buchanan, as well as her sisters, Mildred Lail and Ruby Thomas, and her brothers, Dan Buchanan and Donald Buchanan. Each of these family members played a significant role in her life, and she cherished the memories shared with them.

A visitation will be held on Friday, December 19, 2025, starting at 12:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM, both at Going Home Free Will Baptist Church located at 191 E Yancey St, Marion, NC 28752. The service will be officiated by Rev. Jeff Duncan and Rev. Nathan Jennings. The interment will follow at the Fairview Free Will Baptist Church Cemetery.

Gail Duncan leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and faith that will be forever cherished in the hearts of her family and the many lives she touched throughout her remarkable journey.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to VIA Health Partners for the excellent care they provided to Gail while she was at home under hospice care.