Brenda Jeanette Duncan

Brenda Jeanette (Heard) Duncan departed this earthly life suddenly on Thursday, October 27, 2016 at her home in Whitewright, Texas. Brenda was born October 1, 1952 and lived most of her life in and around Durant, OK. She was 64 years of age. Brenda was preceded in death by her parents, Russell and Opal (McKinney) Heard, and by her son, Ryan Keith Arrington, who died in August 2008; also preceded in death by her sister, Toni Dennis, Paris, TX and her brother, Joe King, Stilwell, OK. Her son, Heath Alan Arrington, of the home, survives her. Her brother, Bobby Garufi, Tulsa, OK and her two sisters, Linda Morgan and Joquita Hastings, both residents of Tulsa, also survive her. Brenda graduated from Durant High School and was a beloved member of the great class of 1970. She excelled in music and was a member of the DHS marching band. She played French horn; she also studied piano with Mrs. Lemon for many years. After high school Brenda became a mother and devoted herself to her twin sons, Ryan and Heath, who were the center of her world, the joy and light of her life. Brenda studied nursing as an adult student at Grayson College and became a Registered Nurse, a career at which she excelled. Brenda’s kind and patient manner, coupled with her expertise as a nurse and caregiver was a gift and a comfort to all those entrusted to her care. Nursing was more than a job or career for Brenda; it was her passion. She held herself to a high standard of professionalism in caring for her patients, both young and old, no matter their social or economic status. She could not tolerate seeing anyone mistreated or neglected, and she was known for stepping in on occasion to right a wrong or to intervene on behalf of her patients, many of who became like family to her. Brenda was witty and loved to laugh; her joy and enthusiasm were contagious; her generosity and love were boundless, and she shared all those gifts willingly. Brenda was strong, but never cynical; unafraid to be vulnerable and trusting, believing always in the inherent good in others. Brenda faced hardships and difficult challenges in her life with courage and conviction, and despite her many hardships, personal challenges and losses she lived with optimism and hope, never complaining even when circumstances were not in her favor. Her love and friendship were steadfast and her word was her bond. She was an authentically good human being, and she lived her life with gratitude and humility. Brenda lived knowing that her most useful asset was not a head full of knowledge, though she was an intelligent and thinking person, but rather a heart full of love, an ear ready to listen, and hands ready and willing to help others. Brenda will be missed by so many who loved her. She was of the Christian faith, and was a long-time member of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Durant. A Memorial Service will be held in the Little Chapel at Highland Cemetery on Monday, November 21st at 2PM under the direction of Browns Funeral Home, Durant, OK. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.brownsfuneralservice.com.

Brenda Jeanette Duncan

October 1, 1952 - October 27, 2016