Charles S. "Chuck" Duncan, Jr.

Charles Stuart Duncan, Jr., a man of quiet strength, dedicated service, and deep family roots, passed away January 21, 2026, at the age of 80.

A resident of Cortland and formerly of Solon, Charles lived a life defined by commitment to his country, his work, and most importantly, his family.

Born in Cambridge, NY, on January 17, 1946, Charles was the son of the late Dr. Charles S. Duncan, Sr. and Evalyn Chapin Duncan. After completing his education and earning an associate’s degree in automotive technology from SUNY at Canton in 1967, he went on to what would become a foundation of his identity: a 21-year career in the United States Army. Retiring as Chief Warrant Officer 2 (CW2) in 1988. Throughout his career Charles traveled where duty called, carrying with him a sense of discipline and honor that stayed with him long after he hung up the uniform. After retiring from the military, Charles brought his expertise home to Central New York. He worked as an inspector for Barton & Loguidice. He then closed out his career spending 8 years at Adhan Piping in Cortland, where he served as an Estimator and Office Manager and greatly loved and respected his family there. Whether in the Army or the office, Charles was known for his steady hand and reliable nature.

At the center of his world was his wife of 55 years, Ladis Pearl Duncan. Together, they built a large, loving family. He was a pillar of support for his children, AmyTyler, Lynellen Corryn, Charles James Duncan, and Kristi Hughston, and a welcoming father-in-law to their spouses, Brian, Steve, MaryAnne and Marc. While Charles faced the profound heartbreak of losing his daughter, Amy, in 2022, he found immense joy in his grandchildren—Tegan Hughston, Trinity Hughston, Aubriana Tyler, Charlie John Duncan, and Annalyse Duncan, who will grow up with many stories of their grandfather’s legacy. Charles was one of six siblings- Donald Duncan, Rory Duncan (Jay) and family, Ann Duncan, Laurie Duncan (Cindi), and Robin Duncan. Spending time with them at their parents’ family farm in Potsdam, NY remained a vital part of his life. He also shared a special bond with Jim and Sandy Seaman and family, his brother-and sister-in-law, and they were the heart of many wonderful memories together.

Family and friends are invited to gather and share memories of Charles at the Donald L. Barber Funeral Home, 5016 U.S. Route 11, Homer, NY. Visitation Hours will be Saturday, January 31, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM and a Memorial Service will be held Sunday, February 1, at 1:00 PM.

Charles will be laid to rest at Chenango Valley Cemetery in the spring. His service to his country will be permanently honored with a bronze VA marker placed at the family monument, a final tribute to a life well-lived in service to others.

In lieu of flowers Charles wanted donations to be made to Mercy House, 212 N McKinley Ave., Endicott, NY 13760, Hospice & Palliative Care Services, 11 Kennedy Parkway, Cortland, NY 13045, or Toys for Tots, PO Box 5113, Cortland, NY 13045.

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