Donna Kelley Duncan, age 83, of Rocky Top

Beloved Wife, Mother, Grandmother, and Friend

In Loving Memory of Donna Kelley Duncan

Donna Kelley Duncan, age 83, of Rocky Top, Tennessee, passed away peacefully in her sleep on May 15, 2026. Born in Detroit, Michigan, on May 17, 1943, Donna was the cherished daughter of Marian and Elvis Kelley. She leaves behind a legacy of unconditional love, kindness, and devotion to her family and community.

A Life Filled With Love

Donna was the devoted wife of James Duncan, whom she married at the age of 17. Their union, a testament to enduring love, spanned 66 years—a remarkable journey filled with joy, partnership, and unwavering support. Donna is survived by her beloved husband James, her children Denese Margolius and Daron Duncan Quintero, and grandchildren Lindsey, Samantha, John, Nathan, Johnathan, and Duncan. She eagerly anticipated the arrival of her great-grandchild, Jack Pearl, due August 3rd. Donna is also survived by her siblings Patricia, Wanda, Linda, Laura, and Timmy. She was preceded in death by her son Douglas Duncan.

A Heart for Family and Community

Donna was a special lady whose deep passion for her family, friends, and community was evident in all she did. She was feisty, funny, loving, and strong—a true force of nature who touched the lives of many. Her love for sewing and quilting was legendary, and she shared her talents generously. From fabulous quilts to handbags, potholders, Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls, and countless other handmade treasures, Donna poured her heart and soul into every creation.

During holidays, Donna delighted in gifting her beautiful, handmade items to loved ones, ensuring each recipient received something not only exquisite but also useful. Her spirit of giving extended far beyond her immediate family: for eight years, she donated two king-size quilts annually to the Play for Pink Breast Cancer Fundraiser, helping to raise over $8,000 for a cause close to her heart. Donna also crafted dresses from pillowcases for children in a Haitian orphanage and created a few wedding dresses—just some examples of her boundless generosity and talent.

Forever in Our Hearts

Donna was truly one of a kind. Her compassion, creativity, and drive to help others made her an irreplaceable presence in the lives of everyone who knew her. She will be deeply, but the memories and love she shared will remain in our hearts forever.

Celebration of Life

A memorial service for Donna Kelley Duncan will be held at Hatmaker’s Funeral Home, 503 S. Main Street, Rocky Top, on Thursday, May 21, at 11:00 a.m.

Please join us following the service at 1:00 p.m. to celebrate Donna’s remarkable life and legacy at the home of James Duncan, 301 Enix Lane, Caryville.