Tommie Lawn Duncan, 1938-2008

Monday, 29 September 2008 05:28 Last Updated on Tuesday, 21 October 2008 07:48 Written by Staff Reports

Tommie Lawn Duncan, age 70, of Navarre, passed away Thursday, Sept. 25, 2008 from complications following heart surgery. He was born Aug 26, 1938 in Okay, Okla., to Lloyd and Roxie Duncan. After graduating from Fort Gibson High School in 1956, he enlisted in the U.S. Army infantry, eventually earning the distinction as an Airborne Ranger He completed two tours of duty in Vietnam and four tours in Korea, finally retiring as a Sergeant First Class after 27 years of honorable and faithful service to his country. While proudly wearing the coveted Ranger Tab, he earned multiple military decorations and awards, including the Bronze Star, Air Medal, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Vietnam Service Medal with Bronze Star and the Meritorious Service Medal. Tommie moved to Ft. Walton Beach in 1970 after completing a final tour in Vietnam. Working evenings and weekends, he cleared a home site by hand and moved his family to Navarre in 1974. He finished his career as an instructor, first serving at Army Ranger Camp Auxillary Field 6 – Camp Rudder, then a final tour in Korea. His last assignment followed at Hurlburt Field as one of the first assigned Army instructors on the base.Tommie turned to woodworking after retirement, building beautiful custom cabinets and furniture. His work enhances numerous local homes, bringing comfort and enjoyment for generations to come. He enjoyed many hobbies beyond woodworking, such as bowling and maintaining his lawn and garden. Always emphasizing family, he never missed the opportunity to celebrate birthdays and holidays with loved ones.Tommie is survived by his wife of 37 years, Rhonda Lee Duncan, his son Bryan and his wife Tammie, his daughter Radonda and her husband Roy, his grandson Bryan Jr., and his three dogs Chrissie, Beau, and Camery.

Viewing will be held from 2-3 p.m. Sept. 30 at Lewis Funeral Home in Navarre, immediately followed by a graveside ceremony at Rose Lawn Cemetery in Gulf Breeze. Floral arrangements or other donations are being accepted at Lewis Funeral Home, 7794 Navarre Parkway, Navarre Fla. 32566.

Ever faithful, always giving, and forever strong – Tommie touched the lives of countless people. He will be missed by all, especially his family.