By Ralphine Major

Our paths seldom cross, but I always enjoy hearing about her. When Jimmy Duncan was a Congressman in Washington representing the people of the Second District, I often told people that his wife, Lynn, was the one who managed the home front in Knoxville. I have always believed that it took an extraordinary person to be a politician’s wife, someone like Lynn. Shortly after Jimmy was elected to Congress, I remember calling Lynn about something. She was organized to the utmost and immediately checked her calendar which coordinated Washington and Knoxville schedules.

While Jimmy served in Washington, Lynn and the children lived in Knoxville. Despite her many responsibilities, Lynn was active in church work. Many years ago, she called to see if our family had ponies on our farm that we could bring to their church festival. Occasionally, I heard about Lynn through others. At our women’s mission banquet at church, I learned more about her. One of the ladies at our table told that Lynn is a great cook! She had been to her home for a Christian women’s luncheon, and Lynn had prepared the meal. Another lady said that she had worked in the church daycare years ago and shared about her many interactions with Lynn as a young mother.

A ten-minute phone conversation with Lynn could provide a world of information. She once told me about John’s outstanding piano talent, how proud she was of Tara and Whitney who were becoming young mothers, and about Jimmy and son Zane riding down the highway in Zane’s red pickup truck listening to country music! While cleaning out files recently, I found a beautiful Christmas card with the Capitol on it from the Duncan family. I was so grateful to Lynn when she sent word by my brother to call her when Zane Daniel became ill. It gave me a chance to call and talk to Zane, and Lynn kept me posted on his condition. I had worked for Jimmy and Zane before Lynn and Jimmy were married. Our mother still talks about the time we visited the Duncan home and how welcome Lynn made us feel. She was pregnant at the time and could still work circles around most people.

I read Jimmy’s wonderful piece about Lynn in The Focus recently. Our family sends our love and prayers for strength and healing to this special lady as she battles her current health issues. She has given so much to the people of East Tennessee.

Words of Faith: “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” 1 Peter 5:7 (KJV)