Bonnie Joan Owens Duncan was born in Jefferson on Jan. 14, 1927, the daughter of John W. Owens and Mabel Hanson Owens. Bonnie attended Jefferson High School, and graduated with the class of 1945. Following high school, she worked for a time at the Gold Crown office in Jefferson.
Bonnie was united in marriage to Merritt Duncan on Dec. 12, 1946, at the Methodist Church in Hiawatha, KS. They were the parents of three sons. The family lived and farmed in Greenbrier Township. In 1975 they moved into Jefferson, and Merritt continued to farm until 2005.
Bonnie was a devoted wife, mother, special aunt, sister, and sister-in-law. She was a member of Culture Club and was a long-time member of the Greenbrier Methodist Church. Bonnie enjoyed welcoming friends and relatives into her home, hosting many family dinners that became treasured memories for all who attended. Her thoughtfulness shone brightly during the holiday season, as she took pride in her Christmas baking. With her son Jay donning a Santa suit, they delivered baked treats, spreading joy and sweetness throughout the community. Bonnie’s love for her family and friends was matched only by her dedication to serving others, always ensuring everyone felt welcomed and cared for.
Bonnie Duncan, age 97, passed away at the Greene County Medical Center (on her mother’s birthdate) October 23, 2024. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Merritt; her sons infant Robert, Thomas, and Jay; and her brothers Kenneth, Leland, Eldon, and twin brother Robert; sisters Lois Beeson, Treva Curry, Kathrine Vincent, Phyllis Powell Henrikson, and Norma Forbes Huffman. Bonnie’s legacy of love and warmth is carried on by her nieces, nephews, and many other relatives and friends.
Funeral services were held on Saturday, Oct. 26, at Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home in Jefferson. Interment was at the Jefferson Municipal Cemetery.
