Community Connect: Sheila Duncan, Reporter for the Press and Could Have Been/Should Have Been Golden Girl
By Savannah Logan
Community is important, and knowing your community is even more important – but how important is it to know the one who reports and informs you on the happenings of your community? Very!
So without further ado, I present to you Mrs. Sheila Duncan, reporter for the Centreville Press.
How long have you lived in Bibb County?
“I’m not revealing my age, but let’s just say I recently celebrated another lap around the sun. Born and raised in Bibb County, I’ve been around long enough to see it all! My parents are Billy and Polly Litton of Centreville and I have 3 sisters Tina Sanford, Kathy McCartney and Lisa Deason.”
What makes our county special to you?
“What makes this county truly special is the sense of community. People here are incredibly supportive and friendly. There’s a strong sense of togetherness, whether it’s at local events, or community projects. It feels like being part of a big, caring family. The rich history of the county makes it unique. There are historical landmarks that tell the stories of our past. I find it fascinating to learn about the events and people who shaped this area, and it gives me a deep appreciation for where we are today.What makes the county truly special to me are the personal connections I’ve made here. From lifelong friendships to family ties, the relationships I’ve built in this community have enriched my life in countless ways. It’s home, and it holds a special place in my heart.”
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
“Anywhere in the world? Hmm, let me see… I’d definitely stay close to my family and grandkids, so I wouldn’t go far from home. I’ve always dreamed of living near the beach, so somewhere with a beautiful shoreline. Of course, I’d be there solo because Mike Duncan is never leaving Pondville, no matter what! LOL”
What is the best job you have ever worked?
“I’ve had several good jobs in the past, but my best one was running my catering business, ‘Southern Charm.’ I loved meeting people and serving them at their events, especially weddings. I miss it to this day, but it took up my weekends with family, so I had to let it go, family was more important.”
What is your dream job?
“My first dream job was in catering, and I’ve experienced and enjoyed that role. Now, my next dream job is to retire and become a stay-at-home housewife and MawMaw and taking care of my Marley Girl (my Shih Tzu).”
Tell us about your family!
“Our family is truly blessed! I’ve been married to Mike Duncan for nearly 40 wonderful years. We have two grown children. Our daughter Whitney is married to Stanley Buzbee, and they have three children: Mackenzie (17), Kayden (15), and Braylin (turning 12 this month). Our son Derek is married to Arline (Watkins), and they have two children: Weston (13) and Easton (7). We all live in the Pondville Community, right next to each other. And can’t leave out my pet Marley (1).”
Who would be your dream person from the Bible to interview in an article for the press?
“One notable figure, aside from Jesus himself, is Esther. She gained favor as King Xerxes’ favorite and, through her faith and courage, persuaded the king to rescind an order to annihilate the Jews. She later became Queen.”
What is your favorite meal to cook or to eat (or both)?
“I cook all the time, and really don’t have a favorite meal, but I do enjoy having a good tender steak grilled by the guys, accompanied by all the sides. I also love organizing a fish fry with my in-laws and family—there’s nothing quite like enjoying some good old catfish and brim together.”
What is your favorite season of the year and why?
“I have two favorite seasons, one being Winter. I love Christmas! Every year I try to come up with something special to do with my grandkids. The second would be Spring, cause the temperature is comfortable. Mike is a turkey hunter and I have gone with him hunting and have actually killed a turkey or two.”
Who is someone who inspires you?
“Who inspires me would be my Daddy (Billy Litton). He was always there for me and the family. He taught us to be kind to everyone, he would tell us we are all brothers and sisters in Christ. He loved easy and was easy to love. That’s the trait he instilled in me and hope when I go to my homecoming that someone will say I was like him in that way.”
If you could guest star on any TV show, which one would it be?
“The Golden Girls! I would fit right in with them, they were hilarious.”
What is your go to song to sing karaoke?
“My karaoke song would be ‘I Will Survive’ by Gloria Gaynor. Next time you in the office Savannah, I will sing it for you, lol.”
(Writer’s note here to let all of you know I, Savannah, WILL be asking her to sing this for me soon!)
Do you have any hobbies?
“I love to go camping, it’s relaxing and I enjoy cooking on the grill and riding bikes. Oh yeah, shopping could be a hobby too, right? I like doing that when I have extra money.”
How do you like to unwind after a long week?
“My way to unwind would be to get up first thing in the morning with my cup of coffee and watching something I enjoy. On Sundays after Church and lunch with his family, Mike and I usually take a Sunday drive if the weather permits.”
If you were in charge of the press for one day, what’s the first thing you’d do?
“Hahahaha!! If I were in charge of the press for one day, the first thing I’d do is declare it ‘National Compliment Day,’ requiring our reporters to report only positive and uplifting stories. Imagine what it would be like if our front-page headline reads, ‘Local Man Returns Lost Puppy and Wins Free Pizza for Life,’ or ‘Scientists Discover Chocolate Is Actually Good for You (in Unlimited Quantities).’ It might just be the best day the world has ever seen!”
Thank you for your time, sweet Mrs. Sheila! If you see her out and about, be sure to join me in thanking her and letting her know how appreciated she is for filling up the Press with the quality content she does.