Mary Ellen Duncan

Mary Ellen Duncan, 97, died at her home October 14, 2018, surrounded by her family. She was born January 26, 1921, the daughter of Henry and Catherine (Condon) Lilwall in Pomeroy Washington. Her family moved to Walla Walla and Mary Ellen attended St. Vincent Academy graduating in 1937 at the age of 16. She began working at Montgomery Ward. In 1946 she married John (Jack) Duncan. They were married 47 years when he passed away in 1993. In 1964 she worked as secretary for one year at DeSales High School. She then returned to working at Montgomery Ward where she retired in 1986.

In their 47 years of marriage Mary Ellen and Jack raised 5 children. She is survived by her children, Linda and her husband Speedy Gonzalez, Jack Jr., Gerard and his wife Yvonne, Maryanne, Tim and his wife Patti. She is also survived by 7 grandchildren, Melissa, Joe and Karene, Mike and Jessica Gonzalez, Gerard Jr., Matthew and Maechen Duncan, Nicole and Caitlin Duncan, 4 great grandchildren and 1 great great-grandchild and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by one brother, two sisters and one infant grandson.

She was a devoted Mother and Grandmother who took special enjoyment in following her children and grandchildren in their extracurricular activities, especially their sporting events. She was also a spiritual woman who prayed the rosary every day for her children and grandchildren. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who knew her.

Viewing and visitation will be held from 1:00 pm until the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 3:00 pm on Sunday, October 21, 2018 at Herring Groseclose Funeral Home. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, October 22, 2018 at 1:00 pm at Saint Patrick’s Church; burial will follow at Mountain View Cemetery with a reception to follow at Saint Francis Parish Hall.

Memorial Contributions may be made to DeSales Booster Club or Walla Walla Community Hospice through the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W. Alder St. Walla Walla, WA.