Mary Jane Duncan

Mary Jane Duncan, 77, of Olathe, Kansas, passed away on October 17, 2026, in Olathe. She was born on September 8, 1949, in Junction City, Kansas.

Mary Jane lived a life centered on learning, family, and quiet devotion to others. She was a graduate of Oskaloosa, KS, Class of 1967, where she was honored as Homecoming Queen. She continued her education at Fort Hays State, graduating in 1971. She went on to devote many years to public education, building a long career in the field and touching the lives of many through her work.

Above all else, Mary Jane’s proudest accomplishment was her family. She found deep joy in the lives and activities of her grandchildren and treasured the time spent cheering them on and being present for the moments that mattered most. She was also a coin collector, an interest that reflected her appreciation for history, detail, and the simple pleasures that made life meaningful.

After surviving breast cancer, she became a big advocate of breast cancer awareness.

She is survived by her husband of 54 years, Bob Duncan, with whom she shared her life and family. She also leaves her children, Bryan Duncan and his wife, Angela, Christina Duncan, and Matthew Duncan and his wife, Kim. Mary Jane was a loving grandmother to Bienna Duncan, Hadley Duncan, Kaysen Duncan, and Caleb Duncan. She is also survived by her brother, John Lester. The love she gave to her family will remain a lasting gift in their lives.

She was preceded in death by her father, John Buckles; her mother, Berneice Buckles; her adopted father, James Lester; her step-father, James Mitchell; and her brother, Bob Lester.

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 23, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Grace United Methodist Church, 11485 South Ridgeview Road, Olathe, Kansas 66061. The funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the church. Burial will take place at 1:30 p.m. at Olathe Memorial Cemetery, 730 North Chestnut Street, Olathe, Kansas 66061.

Mary Jane Duncan will be remembered for her dedication to education, her pride in her family, and the warmth she brought to those closest to her. Her memory will be cherished by all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead, 13800 Switzer Rd., Overland Park, KS  66221.