John T. Duncan

John T. Duncan, 77, of Odessa passed away Monday, December 26, 2011 at Medical Center Hospital. He was born December 13, 1934 in Houston to Foy T. & Hilda (Hearon) Duncan.

He is survived by his wife of 41 years Bobbie Duncan of Odessa, sons, John Duncan & wife Michell of Garland, TX, David Duncan of Lancaster, CA, Mark Duncan of Austin, TX, step-sons Jimmy McWhorter & wife Brenda, Deen McWhorter & fiance’ Tina all of San Antonio, daughter Janet Duncan of Rosenberg, TX, & step-daughter Vicki Morgan of Venus, TX, (17) grandchildren, (9) great-grandchildren, & his constant companion Snicker, his miniature Schnauzer.

John graduated from Stephen F. Austin High School in Houston. He attended Texas A&M University, class of ’56 where he was a member of the Fighting Texas Aggie Band. He was a Century Club member, and last spring was inducted into the Texas A&M Sul Ross Group.

He moved to Odessa in 1960 with the oil industry. He enrolled at UTPB the first year it opened and completed his Bachelor’s degree, majoring in History and Education, as well as teacher certification. He also earned a Masters Degree from UTPB with Mid-Management certification. August of 1975 he started his teaching career at Austin Elementary. His last eight years of teaching were at Blanton Elementary. John retired January 2011 having taught 5th and 6th grade students for 36 years.

John was active in Texas State Teachers Association and the National Education Association and held offices at the local, regional, and state levels, as well as an elected Delegate to State and National Conventions. He was also a TSTA/NEA Retired member.

He was a member of the Westminster Presbyterian Church and a prominent choir member, with an outstanding baritone bass voice, for 41 years. John served as a Deacon and was an ordained Elder. He worked with the youth and as an adult Sunday school teacher.

Mr. Duncan was a member of the Chamber of Commerce Athletic Committee and of the Downtown Lions Club. John’s primary hobby was sports. In the 60’s and 70’s he was an active Little League and summer high school baseball coach. He also worked with Pop Warner football teams. He officiated Jr High, High School & College football games for 36 years in the Permian Basin and most other Texas areas and in New Mexico. He was honored to be selected as a part of Officiating Crews for the State Playoff games including state finals at major professional and college sites in the state. He was also an official for the State All-star game in the Astro Dome in January 1985. John loved to travel and was so excited when he and Bobbie traveled to their 50th state in 2008. He also had trips to four Canadian Provinces.

Family visitation will be held Thursday, December 29, 2011from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. A Memorial celebration service will be held at 11:30 a.m. Friday, December 30, 2011 at Westminster Presbyterian Church with Rev. Jim Gill officiating. A reception will follow at the church.

In lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be directed to Westminster Presbyterian Church, White Pool House Museum (Odessa), or the Humane Society of Odessa.

Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home.