In Memoriam: William Millen Duncan, 84
Ran Chemical's International Ops, JPMC's NJ Subsidiary
William Millen Duncan II, who ran Chemical Bank's international operations and later ran JPMorgan Chase's New Jersey subsidiary, died on January 23, 2024. He was 84 and had lived in Southport, CT.
Born in Toledo, OH, he attended Cranbrook School in Bloomfield Hills, MI, before earning a degree in philosophy from Trinity College in Hartford, CT.
During this time he also earned his pilot's license and was an avid flyer for much of his life, including planes, gliders and hot air balloons. His love for flying later morphed into a love of motorcycles, which he rode most of his life going on extended trips throughout the United States and Europe.
Duncan began his banking career at Chemical Bank. He left to serve as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of First American Bank of New York for many years. After the sale of that business, he joined JP Morgan Chase, as president of their New Jersey subsidiary, among other roles. As an executive he was known as much for mentoring future leaders as he was for his own leadership.
After retiring from banking Bill went on to serve as Director of International Studies at SUNY Stony Brook University. He also served on several corporate boards, including Conair LLC for over a decade.
Duncan raised his family in Greenwich, CT, where he was a resident and supporter of the community for nearly four decades. In 2006 he settled in Southport, CT, and married Peggy, who survives him.
Devoted to many community organizations, he served as Treasurer of Trinity Episcopal Church in Southport and Christ Church Greenwich, and as Senior Warden of the latter. He held board member and finance roles at Lighthouse International and Haitian Educational Initiatives.
Sailing was a passion of his, from racing dinghies on Lake Michigan to cruising Long Island Sound and the Atlantic on his Nonsuch, La Baleine. He was an avid and competitive croquet player, pursuing his passion around the world and serving as a board member and treasurer of the United States Croquet Association and founding member of the Greenwich Croquet Club.
In addition to his wife, Duncan is survived by a daughter, two sons, a stepdaughter and five grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held in the spring at a date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Trinity Episcopal Church in Southport, CT.