Rev. George Andrews Duerson

3/17/2021

Rev. George Andrews Duerson passed away on March 17, 2021. He was born August 4, 1935 in Shreveport, Louisiana to Charles and Louise Chaney Duerson, who preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Linda Rawls Duerson; his son, Dr. Douglas Duerson (Sharon); his daughter, Denise Duerson Sheffield (Joe); his six grandchildren, Wesley and Claire Duerson and Jodi, Amber, Ashley and Johnathon Sheffield; and great granddaughter, Summer Duerson.
 
George graduated from Byrd High School in Shreveport, Southern Methodist University, Yale Divinity School, and the University of Iowa.
 
He became a probationary member of the Louisiana Conference in June 1959 and was ordained as an Elder in full connection in 1962.
 
His first appointment was as the Wesley Foundation Director at Northeast Louisiana State College in Monroe. While serving there he met his beloved wife, Linda.  They were married August 11, 1962, at the Bartholomew Methodist Church near Bastrop, LA. George was blessed to have Linda at his side throughout his ministry. Shortly after their marriage, George was appointed to the Bartholomew-Hughes Chapel charge. While getting his Master's degree in Iowa, he served the Coggan-Silver Creek charge.
 
Upon returning to Louisiana, George continued his service in pastoral ministry. George faithfully served at Lutcher-Laplace, Kenner-First, Denham Springs-First, and St. Matthew’s in Metairie. George left St. Matthew’s to become the Alexandria District Superintendent. After serving as DS, George was appointed to Trinity UMC in Ruston. Thereafter he became the New Orleans District Superintendent. Following his stint as DS, he was appointed to Rayne Memorial from where he retired in 2000.  While retired George served several years as an Associate Pastor at Munholland United Methodist Church.
 
George served as a board member of both the Methodist Hospital and the Methodist Children's Home.
 
Throughout his life, George enjoyed playing tennis. He was a member of the Byrd and the SMU tennis teams. Following retirement, he continued to play as a member of the City Park Tennis Club. George enjoyed traveling the United States and abroad with family and friends.
 
Some of Rev. Duerson's sermons have been published as Still Waters Run Deep (available to read or download at www.deepsoulfishing.com). 
 
George led an exemplary life of service. He was dedicated to his faith and family. Many people will miss him, but they will remember the impact that he had on them and the great example he set for them.
 
A service was held for Rev. Duerson at Munholland UMC on March 20, 2021. He is interred at All Saints Mausoleum.