DeWayne Duncan

DeWayne Duncan, 95, of Sedalia, Missouri, passed away Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at Caring Hearts and Hands in Columbia.

He was born October 21, 1929, in Freeman, Missouri, the only child of Frank H. and Lucile E. (Hackler) Duncan. On April 17, 1955, in Drexel, Missouri, he married Mildred (Long), who preceded him in death on February 19, 2017.

DeWayne was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force, serving for four years during the Korean Conflict, primarily as a chaplain’s assistant in the Philippines.

A lifelong learner, DeWayne earned a bachelor’s degree in education, a master’s in English, a master’s in history, and a specialist in elementary administration. His career in education began in a one-room schoolhouse in Lyle, Missouri, followed by a position as principal in Freeman. He spent the majority of his career at Cole Camp Public Schools, retiring in 1988 after more than 50 years in education. Even after retirement, DeWayne continued to teach, substituting at State Fair Community College and various local schools. His students were his pride and joy, and he loved working with children throughout his life.

A faithful member of Wesley United Methodist Church, DeWayne served as a liturgist well into his nineties. He was also a dedicated member of the Sedalia Lions Club.

DeWayne had a passion for gardening, particularly tending to his flowers. He was known for his green thumb and often entered his plants in competitions at the Missouri State Fair. He also enjoyed raising sheep.

Above all, DeWayne will be remembered as an amazing man—caring, intellectual, humorous, stern, and compassionate. He took great pride in his family and his personal accomplishments.

Surviving are his son, Delwyn Duncan (Mary), of Centralia; his daughter, Darla Steele (Donald), of Smithton; six grandchildren, Nelae Steele, Amber Klusmeyer, LaKala Powers, Devan Duncan, Nicole Duncan, and Bryce Steele; and four great-grandchildren, Penelope Powers, and Aubrey, Braylee, and Cannon Klusmeyer.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Dana Duncan.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 18, 2025, at Wesley United Methodist Church, with Rev. Dawn Gerard, Rev. Dennis Harper, and Rev. Dr. Eddie Brown officiating.

The family will receive friends from 12:30 p.m. until service time Saturday at the church.

Entombment will be in Memorial Park Cemetery, with military honors conducted by the U.S. Air Force and VFW Post 2591.

Casket bearers will be Josh Klusmeyer, Jake Powers, Devan Duncan, Bryce Steele, Jim Willis, Jerry Greer, and Jerry Willis.

Honorary bearers will be Charlie Bultemeier, Don Plowman, Stan and Karen Taylor, members of the Lion’s Club, and The Coffee Club (DeWayne’s Sunday school class).

Memorial contributions are suggested to Caring Hearts and Hands of Columbia, or the Wesley United Methodist Church furnace fund.

Arrangements are in the care of Heckart Funeral Home.