Myrle H. Duncan

Illa Myrle Duncan

September 12, 1935 – June 21, 2026

Illa Myrle Duncan, 90, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2026, in Bridgeport, Texas, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on September 12, 1935, in Decatur, Texas.

Known to everyone simply as Myrle, she was raised in Bridgeport, where she graduated from Bridgeport High School. An outstanding student and athlete, Myrle was the salutatorian of her graduating class, Homecoming Queen, and an active participant in school sports.

After graduating from high school, Myrle attended the University of North Texas before beginning her teaching career in Andrews, Texas. It was there that she met the love of her life, Jack Duncan. They were married and eventually made their home in Denver City, where they raised their two daughters, Karen and Sharon.

Teaching was more than a profession, it was Myrle’s calling. After her first teaching position in Andrews, she spent the remainder of her 33-year career in Denver City, where she inspired generations of students with her patience, kindness, and unwavering dedication. She also earned her Masters Degree in Education from Texas Tech University.

Above all else, Myrle was a woman of unwavering faith. She was a devoted member of First Baptist Church in Bridgeport, where she faithfully served as a greeter and on the welcome team. She treasured every opportunity to make others feel welcomed, loved, and at home.

Myrle lived life with enthusiasm and joy. She loved the color green, cherished Christmas, and never missed an opportunity to celebrate the people she loved. Whether it was sending birthday cards, holiday greetings, or words of encouragement, she had a special way of making others feel remembered. She loved traveling with her dear friends, was always planning her next adventure, and rarely stayed still for long. She also never turned down a good hamburger.

Those who knew Myrle will remember her quick wit, wonderful sense of humor, and the little streak of stubbornness that made her uniquely herself. She loved deeply, laughed often, and found her greatest joy in spending time with her family. Her love, wisdom, and example will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Myrle is survived by her sisters, Joy Bastian and Kay McBee; her brother, James Harlan and his wife, Raetta; her daughters, Karen Robertson and her husband, William, and Sharon Talley and her husband, Joel; her grandchildren, Samuel Robertson and his wife, Meagan, Rachel Croley and her husband, Colton, Reid Talley and his wife, Callie, Chris Robertson, and Bryant Robertson, ; and her treasured great-grandchildren, Jaxon (Mother; Kara), Everett (Mother; Kara), Blake, Cannon, Brooks, Madisyn, John, Jasmine, Will, Miyu, and Alex, along with numerous nieces and nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jack Duncan; her parents; brothers in law Richard and Rives, and her special friend, Gary McBride, whose companionship brought her joy in her later years.

The love, faith, kindness, and wisdom Myrle shared will continue to live on in the hearts of her family, friends, church family, and the countless students whose lives she touched. Her legacy is one of service, compassion, laughter, and steadfast faith.

She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and joyfully remembered. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Myrle’s caregivers for their compassionate care, kindness, and support. Your love and dedication brought comfort to both Myrle and her family, and your generosity will never be forgotten.

Funeral service is at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, June 27th, at First Baptist Church in Bridgeport, with burial at East Bridgeport Cemetery. Family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to First Baptist Church of Bridgeport.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:23

Hawkins Funeral Home Bridgeport

940-683-2211

www.hawkinsfuneralhome.com