Opal Venice Burke Duncan

Opal Venice Burke Duncan, 87, departed this life to join the Heavenly choir on June 5, 2026. She was born in Robinette Valley, Clinchport, VA on August 28, 1938 to the late Rev. William Ervin Burke and Nannie Ruth Diamond Burke.

In addition to her parents, Opal was preceded in death by her brother, Ronald D. Burke, along with several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Opal accepted Jesus as her Savior on May 21, 1967 and dedicated her life to singing and testifying about her Lord. She was a charter member of Speers Ferry Church and stood by her husband as Pastor for 59 years.

Those left to cherish her memory are her husband of 63 years, Rev. Johnny Ray Duncan; son, Terry Duncan and wife Angie; daughter, Tammy Hammonds and husband Jonathan (Jody); adopted granddaughter, Phoebe Perkins; sisters, Nancy Burke, Joyce Head and husband Jerry; sister-in-law, Patricia Burke; brothers-in-law, Ricky Duncan and wife Judy, Dr. David Duncan and wife Teresa; special friend, Caleb Engle along with several nieces, nephews, cousins, a loving church family, and a large host of friends.

Although Opal was disabled due to blindness, she still lived a life of joy and put all her trust in her Lord and Savior. Her family is at peace knowing she will be able to see and have no pain.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 from 4 to 8 pm at Speers Ferry Church, 13241 US Hwy 23, Gate City, VA. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, June 10, 2026 at 1:00 pm at Speers Ferry Church with Pastor Johnny R. Duncan, Pastor David Duncan and Associate Pastor Jonathan Hammonds officiating.

Committal services will follow at Holston View Cemetery with Evangelist Eric Lamb and Evangelist David Perkins presiding.

Pallbearers will be Ronnie Burke, Jason Duncan, Aaron Duncan, Charlie Perkins, Josiah Perkins, Andrew Perkins, and Ezra Perkins. Honorary pallbearers will be men of the church and other nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to Speers Ferry Church, 2388 Robinette Valley Rd, Duffield, VA 24244. 

A special thank you to the doctors and nurses of Holston Valley Hospital for Opal's care.