Dorothy Ann Duncan

Dorothy Ann Duncan, 84, of Tempe, Arizona, returned home to her Heavenly Father on December 1st, 2025, at 7:00 a.m., peacefully surrounded by her family.

Dorothy was born on January 16th, 1941, in Phoenix, Arizona, to William Glenn Foote and Alice Irma (Devore) Foote. She joined her beloved older brother, James E. Foote, who became her lifelong hero and protector.

From an early age, Dorothy developed remarkable musical talent, especially on the piano. Her dedication earned her a full music scholarship from Arizona State University, where she later graduated. Music remained one of her greatest joys, bringing her happiness as she shared her talents with her family, church, and community.

On August 9th, 1961, Dorothy married the love of her life, Jerry Don Duncan, in the Mesa Arizona Temple. Together, they built a warm and loving home in Tempe, raising eight children and creating a family centered on faith, service, and unconditional love. Dorothy was a devoted wife and mother whose kindness, sensitivity, and compassion touched everyone around her.

She found joy in caring for her children and serving those around her. Dorothy was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and served faithfully in many church callings. However, none warmed her heart more than her work in Scouting and Music. Through these roles, and through many friendships built over the years, she blessed countless lives with her time, talents, and love.

Dorothy spent most of her early years in the small mining town of Morenci, Arizona. It was here that she formed and solidified the beliefs and traditions that became the core of who she was. Because of her small-town upbringing, the doors of her home were always open—as was her heart. As children, friends knew they could gather at her home any day, anytime. Over the years, this extended to many people who instantly became “Duncans” and would often say that, as they entered her home, they felt they had truly “come home.”

As Dorothy’s family reflects on her legacy, one quality stands out above all others: her profound love and charity. She devoted her time and resources, making knitted caps for newborns in hospitals and creating an extensive family history record that connected every member of both her immediate and extended family. Dorothy’s hands were always busy—cradling a child, sewing blankets, teaching piano, making costumes or birthday cakes, and caring for animals of all kinds. Countless lives are fuller because of her generous heart and tireless service.

Dorothy held one lifelong desire: that her children would be loved, feel loved, and be happy. She often said, “When we are together, everything will be alright.” She was right.

Dorothy leaves behind a legacy that will continue to bless future generations. Though deeply missed, her gentle spirit and the love she shared will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew her.

Dorothy is survived by her children: Scott (Kalli), Brian (Paula), Rebecca (Randy) Shivers, David (Vivian), Nathan (Megan), Diana (Cade) Rowley, and Troy (Sandra); her brother, James E. Foote; and her brother-in-law, Jimmy Dale (Linda) Duncan. She was the proud grandmother of 29 grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren.

Dorothy is preceded in death by her husband, Jerry; her son, Steven; her parents, William and Alice; and her in-laws, T.C. and Ruby (Moore) Duncan.

A Visitation will be held Monday, December 8, 2025 from 5:00 - 6:30 pm at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2707 S. College Avenue, Tempe, AZ 85282.

A Visitation will be held Tuesday, December 9, 2025 from 10:00 - 11:00 am with a Funeral Service at 11:00 am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2707 S. College Avenue, Tempe, AZ 85282. Interment will follow at the Mesa City Cemetery, 1212 N. Center Street, Mesa, AZ 85211.

The family respectfully requests that, as an alternative to sending flowers, donations be made in Dorothy’s name to Hungry for Music, an organization dedicated to providing musical instruments to children in need.

Donation Link: https://hungryformusic.org/make-a-dedication-donation/