John Wayne Duncan

John Wayne Duncan, 76, of Emory, Virginia, passed away on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at Johnston Memorial Hospital due to complications of vascular dementia.

A lifelong resident of Washington County, John—known by many as “Johnny Wayne”—grew up in Emory and graduated in 1967 from Patrick Henry High School, the same school where his son Tim now serves as principal. He served his country in the United States Army, completing eight months of active duty followed by several years in the U.S. Army Reserve.

John enjoyed a fulfilling twenty-five-year career in management at Westinghouse Corporation’s Wire Division in Abingdon, Virginia. When Westinghouse closed, he co-founded Highlands Industrial Millwright and Maintenance, Inc., an industrial construction company that achieved great success from its founding in 1997 until its closure in 2020.

In 1969, thanks to a blind date arranged by his lifelong friend Stuart Copenhaver, John married Nancy Blackwell of Glade Spring, Virginia. They shared 56 joyful years building a life together in Emory. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, John passed on his love of the outdoors and sports to family and friends. Over the years, he enjoyed archery, trap shooting, and especially enjoyed participating in IDPA (International Defensive Pistol Association) competitions, as well as elk hunting trips with his friends.

A dedicated Mason, John was a longtime member of the Glade Spring Masonic Lodge No. 236 and, more recently, the Chilhowie Lodge No. 250. He served multiple terms as Master of the Glade Spring lodge and also served with distinction on the Grand Lodge of Virginia. His commitment to the principles of Freemasonry was reflected in his service, leadership, and generosity.

John was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Nancy Duncan; his parents, John Wallace Duncan and Lorena Venable Duncan; and his brother-in-law, Fred Wetzel. He is survived by his sons, Tim Duncan (Melinda) and Chris Duncan (Stephanie); his grandchildren, Madison Duncan, Hannah Duncan, Emma Duncan, Will Duncan, Bailey Moore, and Sophie Moore; his sister, Lois Duncan Wetzel; and his nephew, Frederic Duncan Wetzel.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Johnston Memorial Hospital, as well as to Wayne and Pat Jones, Stuart and Vicki Copenhaver, Larry Bennett, and Mark Trogden for their steadfast friendship, generosity, and unwavering support.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Frost Funeral Home in Abingdon, Virginia, followed by a funeral service. Interment will take place at approximately 3:00 p.m. at the Holston Conference Emory and Henry Cemetery. Officiant: Ronnie Musick. Pallbearers: Mark Trogden, Fred Holbrook, Fred Duncan, Will Duncan, Wayne Jones, Stuart Copenhaver, Larry Bennett, and Charles Hicks.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Frost Funeral Home and Cremation Services is honored to serve the family of Mr. John Wayne Duncan.