Romeo Jones Duncan

Romeo Jones “RJ” Duncan passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 4, 2016 at the age of 75 in the arms of his wife Dianne and surrounded by his family and friends after a short illness. Married to his loving wife of 53 years, Dianne, he is survived by Dianne and their 3 sons & families: John, Lynette, Sarah (16), Katherine (12); Mike, Pam, Rebecca (16), Elizabeth (15); Brad, Stephanie, Ben (11), Whit (5), and Samantha (3). Born and raised in Knoxville, Romeo graduated from Bearden High School in 1959. He attended the University of Tennessee-Martin on a full football scholarship, where he met Dianne. After graduation, Dianne and Romeo settled in Dianne's hometown of Memphis, where he supported and encouraged Dianne’s completion of Pharmacy School and where they established a glowing network of lifelong friends and relationships. Romeo served the Memphis City Schools system for 37 years, including long standing roles as teacher and coach at Overton High School, assistant principal of Treadwell High School, and elementary principal at both White Station and Raleigh Egypt Schools. After early retirement for medical reasons, he and Dianne relocated back to Knoxville in 2000. Romeo enjoyed spending time with his family and close friends; especially his grandchildren. He faithfully served his church (Zion United Methodist) in multiple roles. A kind, gentle, helpful soul, Romeo was a dependable friend to all. He was preceded in death by his father, Frank Landon Duncan, Sr (1973), mother Nell Ruble Jones Duncan (1999), brother William Milton Duncan (1936), brother Frank Landon Duncan, Jr. (2015), mother in law Gladys Waldrop Vest (2010) and father in law Henry Deihl Vest (1974). He is survived by his sister Patricia Ann Hutton, brother Ross Eugene Duncan, and uncle Henry Benjamin “Ben” Duncan, all residing in Knoxville. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 7 from 5:00 – 7:30 pm at Rose Mortuary Mann Heritage Chapel followed by a celebration of Romeo’s life at 7:30 pm with Dr. Jim Eoff and the Rev. Dr. Charles Wender officiating. Graveside services Wednesday, June 8 at 10:00 am at Zion United Methodist Church Cemetery, 1807 Duncan Rd. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to the Romeo Duncan Football Scholarship at UT Martin. Checks may be mailed to UT Martin Development Office, 328 Administration Building, Martin TN 38238 or make a donation online at www.utmforever.com/giving and typing in Romeo Duncan Scholarship in the “Other Fund” box. For questions regarding this scholarship, please call 731-881-7620.” Online condolences may be extended at www.rosemortuary.com

Tributes

Romeo Jones Duncan

June 4, 2016