Nursing has been my greatest reward for more than 25 years. My career began in 1967. I was fortunate at that time to meet Lydia Mardelle Duncan, R.N. Over the years, Lydia became my friend and mentor. She was my nursing instructor for two consecutive years (1967-1969). As we worked together in the beginning of my career, Lydia exemplified dedication to patient care, love for humanity, and enthusiasm for advancing knowledge in medicine and nursing practice. As my professor, colleague and friend, Lydia taught me that learning never ceases. She emphasized dedication to collaborative problem solving to improve the well being of others. She taught that the people we care for become our inspiration, and the privilege of caring for them our greatest reward.

Lydia Mardelle Duncan, a retired registered nurse and college instructor in nursing - died Saturday April 23, 1988 at her home in Monterey . She was 78.

Mrs. Duncan was born July 21, 1909, in Haskell County, Texas. She was a resident of Monterey for 11 years.

She taught for many years at nursing colleges, including Los Angeles Valley college in Van Nuys. After retiring from nursing and teaching, Mrs. Duncan moved to Pacific Grove in Monterey California. She was a Member of the Church of Christ in Pacific Grove.

Her Husband Paul Died in 1980.