Dr. John Allen Duncan

Dr. John A. Duncan, beloved husband, father, grandfather, pastor, and servant leader, transitioned to glory on April 19, 2026. Born on October 27, 1957 to the late Charles Duncan and Polly Mae Robinson Duncan Chiles in Greenwood, South Carolina, he lived a life defined by faith, discipline, vision, and an unwavering commitment to serving others.

A longtime resident of Easley, South Carolina, Dr. Duncan was the founder and senior pastor of Rivers of Life Family Church International in Greenville, South Carolina, established in 1996. For more than 20 years, he faithfully led the church with a clear mission: to see lives “changed, charged, and challenged through the preaching, teaching, and demonstration of God’s word.” Under his leadership, the church became a welcoming, judgment-free community where all were invited to “come as you are.”

A pivotal turning point came in the early ‘90s when he moved his family to Oklahoma to attend Rhema Bible Training College. There, he deepened his theological foundation, became ordained for ministry, and built relationships with fellow believers who later followed his vision back to Greenville to help plant Rivers of Life – an extraordinary step of faith that would impact countless lives.

Dr. Duncan’s teaching was marked by his message of inexplicable, “crazy faith,” along with principles of prosperity, stewardship, and sowing seeds. He challenged others to dream big, pursue excellence, and live with purpose. Known for his generosity, he gave freely of his time, wisdom, and resources to his family, congregation, and those in need.

A first-generation college graduate, Dr. Duncan valued education and lifelong learning. He earned his Ph.D. in Psychology and encouraged others to pursue knowledge and reach their fullest potential. He was an avid reader who filled his home and office with books, always seeking to grow.  John was a man of many interests, including aviation, art, and drawing, and aspired to become a licensed pilot.

Above all, he was devoted to his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Clarissa Gibbs-Duncan; his children, Bethany Duncan Arrington (Terence) of Taylors, SC, JoAnna Duncan Cleaves (Daniel) of Houston, TX, and Aaron Duncan (Lindsey) of Woodstock, GA; and his six cherished grandchildren, Eden, Yara, Tyler, Journee, Jrue, and Gianna. He also leaves behind children and grandchildren whom he lovingly embraced as his own: Aboni, Angelica, Caiden, Zoey, Jordyn and Barikia. Known for his playful spirit, he brought joy and laughter to his grandchildren and treasured every moment with them.

He leaves one brother, Charles Randy Duncan, and three sisters, Linda Pendermon, Gwen Griffin (Leroy), and Katina Reid, along with a large extended family, church family, and community who will carry forward his legacy. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Betty Jo Duncan, two sisters, Sarah Lomax and Doritha Duncan, and three grandchildren, Dalyce, Christian and Baby Girl Duncan.

His sacrifices, discipline, and faith created a lasting legacy in his family and in the many lives transformed through his ministry.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11

Services will be Held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Morris Chapel Baptist Church, 530 Baptist Avenue, Greenwood, S.C. 29646, with Pastor Leon Cromartie, Officiating, burial will follow at Greenville Memorial Gardens. Viewing will be Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10:00 A.M. until the service hour. The family is at his home, 208 Kingsman Lane, Easley, S.C. and 303 McKeller Drive, in Greenwood. Services have been entrusted to Robinson and Son Mortuary, Inc, 

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