Martha Lou Duncan departed this life on June 4, 2025, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Born on August 2, 1949, in Chicago, Illinois, to Joseph Duncan Jr. and Rosalie Duncan. That same year they relocated to Pittsburgh, Pa where they resided in the Hill District—a place where her love and unwavering dedication to family and community thrived.
Martha received her GED through the McKeesport School District. On August 4, 1966 she married the love of her life Larry Morris Sr. and from that love they had their two beautiful children LaShaun Grimes and Larry Morris Jr.
Her life was a testament to strength, generosity, and boundless love. Martha held two jobs throughout her life. During her early years she worked as a medical assistant at Central Medical, showcasing her dedication to helping others and as a Postmaster with the United States Postal Service for 46 years,
Martha was a pillar of reliability and service. Though her career shaped part of her journey, her greatest joy and fulfillment came from her family. Known fondly as "Bluey," Martha's infectious laughter could brighten any room, lifting spirits with its warmth. She had a remarkable ability to make people feel loved —whether through a kind word, a well-timed joke, or her signature brand of tough love. She provided a safe and welcoming home to children in foster care and extended kindness to friends and family in need. Her strong family roots were shared among her siblings, including her surviving sister, Jozette (Kent) Gates, and brother Joseph Duncan II.
Martha had a flair for beauty—always adorned with the finest nails, the most glamorous eyelashes, and a style uniquely her own. She was the definition of fabulous, never hesitating to lend a helping hand (or, humorously, to replace a shirt she didn't approve of. An artist in her own right, she studied furniture upholstery and transformed her surroundings with creativity and skill.
Martha was preceded in death by her father, Joseph Duncan Jr.; her mother, Rosalie Augustus; her brother, Eugene Duncan; and her sister, Linda Joyce Huguley.
She leaves behind a lasting legacy of love through her children, LaShaun Morris and Larry Morris Jr. She was a proud grandmother, affectionately called Gran; to Mama RaShaun (Arsean) Humphrey, Courtney Grimes, Candice Jackson, Cory Jackson, and\ Anthony (Tonisha) Mack. She adored her great-grandchildren: RaShai Humphrey, Rayeonna Dyer, ArShiya Humphrey, RaNiya Humphrey, Khalil Jackson, Riot Burnham, and Kalani Jackson. Her presence will be deeply missed by a host of nieces, nephews, and everyone blessed to know her. Martha embodied generosity, resilience, and unconditional love. Though she is no longer physically with us, her spirit lives on in the hearts of those she cherished. Rest peacefully, Gran—your love and light will continue to shine through the lives you touched.
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Martha Lou Duncan, please visit our floral store.