Evan Michael Duncan

Evan Michael Duncan of Springfield, Virginia, passed away at 5:00am on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at INOVA Fairfax Hospital at the age of 76. He was born on March 12, 1949, the son of Francis Duncan and Frances M. Duncan. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Rosalie Langelan Duncan, and his brother-in-law, Peter F. Majka. He leaves behind his sister, April Duncan Majka, mayor of New Oxford, Pennsylvania, and his niece, Kellie Marie Majka of Sunbury, Ohio, along with extended family and many dear friends. Evan graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Ohio Wesleyan University in 1970. He received a Master of Arts degree in History from University of Chicago in 1974. Evan was a devoted husband to the love of his life, Rosalie, whom he cherished deeply even to this day, all the days of his life. Their life together was marked by faith, tradition, and quiet devotion, and he spoke of her often with great affection. A man of deep and abiding faith, Evan was devoted to God and a dedicated student of Scripture. Each Sunday, he faithfully attended Mass at St. Lawrence Catholic Church at 9:00 am, followed by worship at nearby Faith Evangelical Presbyterian Church, where he was a charter member and served as the church historian. He formally became a member of St. Lawrence on Palm Sunday in 2023. He was also a passionate advocate for the sanctity of life, regularly participating in the March for Life until his recent illness. Evan was known for his quiet and private nature, yet he came alive when discussing history – his lifelong passion. He served as a historian for the U.S. State Department and retired after 44 years in 2018, bringing both excellence and dedication to his work. A proud member of the Duncan Clan, Donnachaidh, Evan delighted in all things Scottish. He and Rosalie were avid enthusiasts of Scottish country dancing, and he was a familiar presence in the Scottish Walk in Alexandria. Affectionately nicknamed “Braveheart” by some, he occasionally wore his kilt to church and community events. Evan was also a gifted baker, well known for his Scottish shortbread and Christmas cookies, which he generously shared with others for many years. Evan lived life fully and joyfully, engaging in a wide range of activities and inviting others to join him along the way. He carried himself with a distinctive style – most often dressed impeccably in a suit with a bow tie, and at times in a kilt or tuxedo. He was a friendly and welcoming presence, a terrific singer, and someone who delighted in reciting poetry from memory. He also had a deep love for animals, especially his beloved cats, Felix and McMurphy. Evan’s patron saint was St. Thomas the Apostle, whose declaration, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28), reflected Evan’s own sincere faith. It is with great hope and confidence that he now stands in the presence of his Savior, welcomed into eternal life. Evan will be remembered for his steadfast faith, his love of history and Scripture, his joyful spirit, and his enduring contributions to his church, his community, and all who knew him. Visitation will take place on Friday, April 10, from 5:00pm to 9:00pm ET at Jefferson Funeral Chapel located at 5755 Castlewellan Drive, Alexandria, VA 22315. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, April 11 at 11:00am ET at St. Lawrence Catholic Church located at 6222 Franconia Road, Alexandria, VA 22310-2511.

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Evan Michael Duncan

March 12, 1949 - March 25, 2026