JUNIE MAE DUNCAN

Junie Mae Duncan, lovingly known to family and friends simply as “Junie,” was born on May 25, 1947 in Brooklyn, New York to her father Cesar Reynolds and mother, Vera Shugars. She was originally given the name Theresa Reynolds, but in her early years she changed her name to Junie Mae Griffon, embracing the identity that reflected her spirit. Following her marriage, she became known as Junie Mae Duncan, carrying her new identity into the life God had purposed for her and the name by which she was loved, respected, and remembered throughout her life. From an early age, Junie carried a strong desire to better her life’s circumstances. With determination and vision, she pursued a career in nursing, beginning as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) and working in various hospitals across Long Island, New York. In 1968, at the young age of 21, Junie welcomed her first child, a daughter named Rachell Laura Pack (who later changed her name to Laura Nefertari). With persistence and grace, she continued her education at Stony Brook University in pursuit of her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing. During this season of her life, she entered into marriage with Leslie Duncan, and from that union her second child, Michael Duncan, was born. Over the next three decades, Junie faithfully served in the medical field as a Registered Nurse. Her career spanned more than 30 years, and she was known as an overachiever, excelling in every role she held. She not only cared for patients but also taught and mentored many students who would go on to follow in her footsteps. Her diligence, compassion, and excellence left a lasting mark on countless lives. Around 1979, Junie and her family relocated to Orange County, California, where she continued her work as an RN. Years later, she was blessed to purchase her own home and settle in Redlands, California, where she lived for over 40 years. Junie had a zest for life and a joyful spirit that drew people in. She enjoyed visiting casinos, often delighting in her winning streaks that made her envy of her friends. After retirement from nursing, she even applied to work at a casino to stay connected to the excitement she loved, though she wasn't hired. Still, she continued to enjoy her favorite pastime as a guest, and her streaks of favor not only brought her joy but also showered her with prizes and laughter. In addition to her love for games of chance, Junie also had a gift for bringing joy to others. She boldly tried her hand at stand-up comedy, performing at several comedy clubs throughout the Inland Empire. Her humor, wit, and personality lit up every stage she touched, just as it lit up the hearts of everyone blessed to know her. In December of 2022, Junie’s health began to decline as she faced the onset of Goodpasture Syndrome, a rare disease that attacked her kidneys. This condition placed a heavy toll on her body, progressing into a renal disease and later becoming compounded with autoimmune disease, heart failure, and seizures in her final years. Though her body grew weary and could no longer endure the burdens of dialysis, her spirit remained strong until the end. On Sunday, September 28, 2025, at approximately 10:25 a.m., Junie peacefully went home to be with the Lord, surrounded by her loving family and friends. In her last days, she was comforted and cared for by her devoted daughter, Rachell, who returned home to be by her side before and during her passing. Junie leaves behind her beloved children, Laura Nefertari and Michael Duncan; her cherished grandchildren Evan, Giordan, and Ce’Mone; and many great-grandchildren by the names of A’Mya Pearson, JoVahn Pearson, Evan Pearson Jr., JoSiah Pearson, Giordan Pearson Jr., Summer Pearson, Ce’Maja Pearson-Small, Ey’Vonn Pearson & Kevian Pearson who will all carry her love and legacy forward. She is also remembered by a host of extended family, friends, colleagues, and all who were blessed to know her. Though she is no longer with us in the flesh, her faith, her laughter, her victories, and her love will remain forever in our hearts.

JUNIE MAE DUNCAN

May 25, 1947 - September 28, 2025