Robert Duncan Jr

COOKEVILLE CHAPEL - Robert “Bob” Duncan passed away peacefully on December 1, 2024, at home. He was born on July 21, 1947 in Nashville, Tennessee, but moved to Cookeville at an early age. Bob attended local schools, graduating from Central High School in Cookeville, ultimately earning his bachelor’s degree from Tennessee Tech University.

Following his education, Bob built a career as the owner/partner of the accounting firm that became Duncan, Wheeler & Wilkerson, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues and clients alike. After his ‘retirement’ from public accounting, he served as the Chairman of the Tennessee Rural Development Fund, where he committed himself to enhancing the economic vitality of rural Tennessee. His work focused on stimulating business growth through innovative financial solutions and fostering private investment in low-income communities, improving the region’s economy. 

Bob's dedication extended beyond his professional endeavors; he believed in being an active member of the community and gave his time and expertise to numerous local programs. He was elected and served twelve years as a Putnam County Commissioner. He held significant roles with the Cookeville Regional Medical Center Board of Trustees and the hospital Foundation Board, as well as the Tennessee Tech College of Business advisory board. Bob was an active member of multiple civic organizations, including the Putnam County 911 Board, the Putnam County Sheriff Citizens Committee, the Cookeville/Putnam County Chamber of Commerce, and the local Boy Scouts of America's Eagle Scout program. Bob was also a key advisor as a member of the First United Methodist Church’s Finance committee. 

Known for his high standards, problem solving and willingness to help others, Bob was a behind the scenes leader who added tremendous value to the roles he held and organizations he was part of. While his professional and volunteer work impacted the community in many positive ways, his role as a loving husband and father were where he had his greatest influence. 

He enjoyed spending time with his family boating at Center Hill Lake and exploring other parts of the world on cruises with his wife, Diane. His love of photography was a lifetime hobby. 

Bob is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Diane DeBerry Duncan; daughter, Rebecca, and husband Brian Bowman, of Brentwood, Tennessee; son, Robert M. Duncan, III, and wife Jessica, of Washington, D.C.; and his cherished grandchildren, Maddie and Katie Bowman; Patrick and Andrew Duncan.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert M. Duncan, Sr., and Nelda DeMontbreun Duncan.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, December 7, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. in the Cookeville Chapel of Hooper Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home. Private family interment will follow in Cookeville City Cemetery. His family will receive friends Friday evening from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm and again Saturday from 10:00 a.m.until service at the funeral home.

Bob Duncan will be remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for his profound impact on his community and the love he shared with his family. His legacy will undoubtedly live on through the work he initiated and the lives he inspired throughout his lifetime.

Millard DeBerry, Brian Council, Wills DeBerry, Bob Faulhaber, Matt Allen, David Allen, Kevin Bowling and Danny Rader will serve as pallbearers. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to be made to Cookeville Regional Charitable Foundation (https://cookevilleregionalcharity.org/) and/or to Tennessee Tech University College of Business.

Hooper, Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111. Share memories and condolences at www.hhhfunerals.com.