Deborah Duncan

Asheville – Deborah (Debbie) Duncan passed away August 25, 2026, at CarePartners
Hospice Solace Center surrounded by her loving family after succumbing to pancreatic
cancer. Born October 7, 1948, she was the daughter of the late Beryl and Vera Austell Lovelace. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Dr. George C. Duncan, Jr.

After graduating from Spartanburg High School, she attended the University of South
Carolina. She received a master’s degree in social work, also from the University of
South Carolina, while working at the Department of Social Services in Charleston, SC.
After living and working in Columbia and Spartanburg, she, her husband, and their two
children relocated to Asheville, NC. She served as the social work director at the
Buncombe County Health Department for many years.

In addition to being a compassionate and dedicated social worker, Debbie was very
active in her church and community. At various stages in her long-time membership at
First Presbyterian Church of Asheville, she taught Sunday School, served as a deacon,
and regularly volunteered with Saturday Sanctuary and Room in the Inn, among other
roles. She loved hiking, spending time at the beach, bike riding, painting, and Pilates.
She was a devoted Lady Gamecocks fan. She also loved R&B from the ’50s and ’60s, especially Jackie Wilson.

The family would like to express a special thank you to CarePartners Hospice Solace
Center and the Messino Clinic.

Debbie is survived by her two daughters, Jill McLeigh (Pete) of Charlotte, NC and Wendy Kithcart (James) of Charlotte, NC as well as two grandchildren, Pearse Johnson McLeigh and Skylar Eamon McLeigh.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at First Presbyterian Church of Asheville.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Debbie’s memory to First Presbyterian
Church’s Saturday Sanctuary program, National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation, or the
charity of your choosing.

Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian is assisting the family.