It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Charlie Lee Duncan Jr., who died on June 20, 2026, at the age of 71. After a recent diagnosis of neuroendocrine cancer, his health declined more rapidly than anyone anticipated. Throughout this difficult time, he remained surrounded by the love and support of family and friends.

Born on December 1, 1954, in Maysville, Kentucky, Charlie was the son of Charlie Duncan and Merritha Jewell (Cox) Duncan. He dedicated 20 years of service to McClouth Steel before retiring and later continued his career at Chrysler, where he worked for 29 years before retiring again. During his years of employment, Charlie completed his electrical classes and apprenticeship, ultimately becoming a licensed journeyman electrician.

Charlie was a deeply devoted father and grandfather who centered his life around his family. He worked hard to provide for his children and always put them first, never missing the important milestones in their lives-big or small. In recent years, some of his greatest joys were spending time with his grandson, Calin, sharing coffee outings with Samantha, attending school events, and proudly supporting the school community where Samantha serves as principal and Calin is a student. He also cherished time with his son, Charlie III, especially their lunches together and moments to simply catch up and connect. Charlie and Kelli shared many meaningful years together, and he continued to hold her in care and affection throughout his life. He was also a loving "dog dad" to Henry (deceased), Finn, and Grace, and a proud "dog grandpa" to Basil (deceased) and Cinna.

Charlie had a strong sense of service and community. He was someone people could always count on and quietly helped many others without seeking recognition-whether it was small toys or gifts for neighborhood children, paying for someone's groceries, or taking in trash cans for neighbors. He was honored with a Certificate of Compassion from the City of Westland, MI for his contributions through community clean-up efforts, often accompanied by his beloved dogs Henry (deceased), Finn, and Grace. During his time at Chrysler, he also cultivated banana plants with his colleagues, a tradition they have continued to carry on together even after his retirement. He enjoyed training and working with his dogs in agility and found great fulfillment in those shared experiences. Charlie also had a deep passion for pool, spending Mondays shooting pool with his best friend Tom and competing as a member of the Wolf Pack league team. While he was often humble about his abilities, those around him admired his natural talent, precision, and dedication to continual improvement.

Above all, Charlie was known for his compassionate and generous spirit. He was kind, empathetic, and always willing to see the best in others. His sense of humor, storytelling, and easygoing nature brought joy to those around him. Whether with family, friends, or his dogs, Charlie gave his whole heart to everything he loved. His legacy is one of kindness, humor, and unwavering love for his family, and he will be remembered for the warmth, respect, and care he showed throughout his life.

Charlie is survived by his children, Samantha Cucu (Alin Cucu) and Charlie Duncan III; his beloved grandson, Calin Cucu; his sisters, Lane Duncan and Claudia Parker; his brother, James Duncan; and his nephew, Joshua Duncan. He is also survived by Kelli Duncan (Marlatt), with whom he shared many meaningful years of marriage. He was preceded in death by his wife, Paula Duncan (Morris); his parents, Charlie Duncan and Merritha Jewell (Cox) Duncan; and his brother, Dallas Ray Duncan.

A visitation will be held on Friday, June 26, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and on Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. A funeral service will follow on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. These services will be held at the Uht Funeral Home located at 35400 Glenwood Road in Westland Michigan. www.uhtfuneralhome.com/obituaries/charlie-duncan

Graveside services will take place on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Elizaville Cemetery in Elizaville, Kentucky.