Linda “Shuggie” Bahner Duncan

Friends, family, and to all who knew my Shuggie:

My grandmother, Linda “Shuggie” Bahner Duncan, has passed away at the age of 82.  As an avid reader and scholar, she often encouraged me to pick up a book and to ask questions. “Knowledge is power” was the underlying foundation of my grandmother’s life. She graduated from the University of Houston as a double major in English and Journalism. A few years later she completed her Masters in English from the same institution. As a foreign correspondent, my grandmother traveled all across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and North America. She was spit fire.  After all, I can assure you each morning when my grandmother’s feet hit the floor the devil said “Oh damn! She’s up!”

There will not be a formal service or memorial at this time. There was just no way we thought we could convince any church to play the Monkey Business album by the Black Eyed Peas during a moment of silence or prayer even though it really was Shuggie’s favorite. 

In lieu of sending flowers we are asking that you instead donate to your favorite charity or research institution, buy yourself a piece of jewelry, build your business, or invest in your stock portfolio. My grandmother was a genius when it came to the stock market. She fearlessly followed her dreams and encouraged others to follow theirs. She did not believe in the word budget. She also enjoyed having options. Trust me, the flowers will wilt but that bobbydazzler will sparkle forever. 

If you do pick a charity or research institution- you get bonus points if it is UFO related! 

My grandmother always believed that she was from the stars. It was her wish to return to them. To honor that wish, my family and I are having her remains cremated and turned into a diamond. She may not be able to make it all the way to the stars, but now she can shine as bright as one. 

To the Tuesday Group Girls:  She often recapped your weekly dinners and movie dates when we called her. You all celebrated birthdays and holidays, making sure one was never missed. For that we are grateful. 

If you have any funny memories you would like to share of my grandmother or to simply send your condolences, we ask that you email lindabahnerduncan@gmail.com. We would all love to read them! 

For some death is not the end, but simply the beginning.