It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Dr. Barbara Duncan-Cody, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, friend, physician (OB/GYN), and surgeon on September 15, 2025. She was born on April 25, 1946. Dr. Barbara Duncan-Cody was a proud graduate of the Manassas High School Class of 1964. After earning her undergraduate degree from Knoxville College, she went on to obtain her Doctor of Medicine from Meharry Medical College. A trailblazer, she became the first female Black OB/GYN to open a private practice in Memphis, Tennessee. Dr. Duncan-Cody dedicated her life to serving her community with unwavering compassion and skill, retiring in June 2025.

Dr. Duncan-Cody was a woman of exceptional character and dedication. She was a committed member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., the Memphis Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., and a Charter Member of Jack & Jill of America, Inc., And add she was a charter member of the Society Inc., Memphis chapter Associates. She also belonged to the Medical Auxiliary, the Bluff City Medical Society, and the Memphis Chapter of Links, Incorporated. Her faith was a central part of her life, and she was a lifelong member of Trinity CME Church in Memphis, TN.

Well-respected and admired by everyone who knew her, Dr. Duncan-Cody will be remembered for her generous spirit and kind heart. Her legacy extends far beyond her professional accomplishments, including serving on the 911 Board of Directors for Shelby County, being featured in the Commercial Appeal and Grace Magazine, and serving as a Methodist Healthcare Foundation Board Member, among many other achievements made possible in part by the support of her loving husband of 57 years. She has touched the lives of countless individuals and families.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory her loving husband, Atty. Homer Lee Cody; her children, Justin Ryan Cody and Rachel Joann Cody-Alexander (Darrell); and her three cherished grandchildren, Laila, Rome, and Darrell. Her memory will forever be etched in our hearts.

There will be visitation for Dr. Duncan-Cody on Friday, September 26th from 5:00 - 7:00  PM at Trinity CME Church, 1096 Thomas Street, Memphis, Tennessee 38107.A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held at First Baptist Broad 2835 Broad Ave. Memphis, TN 38112 on Saturday, September 27, 2025  at 11am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Meharry Medical College or Historic Knoxville College in her honor and Memory.

Link to live stream : FBCB.Org watch live

Jefferson Mortuary, Inc. has charge:

7788 Church Street

Millington, Tennessee 38053

(901) 872-8800 Phone

(901) 872-4722 Fax

jeffersonmortuary@yahoo.com