11/12/2025
Edward J. Duraczynski, lovingly known as “Pop Pop and Poppie” by his grandchildren, passed away peacefully in his home on November 9, 2025, at 12:25 a.m., at the age of 88, surrounded by loved ones.
Born on January 9, 1937, in Camden, New Jersey, Edward lived a full and devoted life marked by love, service, and laughter. He spent most of his years in Keithville, Louisiana, where he built lasting friendships and cherished memories. Edward was the beloved son of the late Edward and Mary Duraczynski. He was married to the love of his life, Donna Moore Duraczynski, for 63 wonderful years. Together they raised a beautiful family, including their children Deborah Bulliard (Guy), Donna Reyenga, and Edward “Buster” J Duraczynski Jr. He was a proud grandfather to Tara Nickels (Curtis), Laura Messer (Stewart), Alexandra Morvan (Matthew), and Angelique Melancon (Brad); and a doting great-grandfather to Charleigh, Presley, and Cypress Messer, Addyson and Fallyn Nickels, Maddox, Jett and Banks Melancon, and Ezra and Everett Morvan. He is also survived by his sisters and brothers-in-law, Sylvia Ann Moore Osment (Glynn) and Carolyn Spivey Moore, along with numerous beloved nieces and nephews. Edward was also preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Mary Duraczynski, his wife Donna Moore Duraczynski, his daughter Karen Kay, his wife’s parents Frank and Maybelle Moore, Sisters and Brothers: Rita Chojnacki (Daniel), Isabell Bodziuch (Raymond), Gloria Cannon (Donald), David Moore, and Caroline Moore Goodwin.
Edward proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for 20 years, retiring as a Technical Sergeant. During these years of service, he completed four tours in Vietnam, where he spent time with his squadron, AKA Spectre 18 Ghostriders in the Sky, on their AC-130. His bravery and skill as an airman earned him five Distinguished Flying Crosses and fifteen Air Medals—decorations honoring acts of heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight. His commitment to his fellow servicemen and to the nation he loved was unwavering. Following his military career, Edward pursued a second career, working with Prudential Insurance, and was named Rookie of the Year upon his start. After 19 years of insurance, he worked in the men’s department at both Dillard's and Stein Mart in sales, bringing the same dedication and integrity to his civilian life that he had shown in uniform. Outside of work, Edward’s life was filled with joy and adventure. He was an announcer for the Southside Riding Club and was known for performing magic tricks that delighted his grandchildren. He and Donna shared a love of the open road, often attending Harley-Davidson rallies together with Donna leathered up on the back of his white Road King, smiling from ear to ear. Edward took great pride in his family and his service to his country. His happiest moments were spent surrounded by his children and grandchildren, making them laugh and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
The pallbearers honoring the memory of Edward J. Duraczynski are Guy Bulliard, Curtis Nickels, Stewart Messer, Brad Melancon, Matthew Morvan, Cypress Messer, Maddox Melancon, and Ezra Morvan.
We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Richard Haynie, Dr. M. Alan Brown, Dr. Michelle Chico, Dr. Zulqarnain Abro, Dr. Arthur Kavanaugh, the Veterans Affairs Hospital, and their dedicated teams for the exceptional care and compassion they provided. Your expertise, kindness, and unwavering commitment brought comfort and dignity to him and our entire family. We are deeply thankful for the time, attention, and genuine concern you showed throughout his care. Your efforts made a profound difference in his journey and in our hearts.
Visitation will be held at Auld’s Funeral Home, 7849 East King Highway, Shreveport, LA, on November 18, 2025, at 10:00 AM. Services follow at 11:30 AM. Burial will follow at the Northwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery. 7970 Mike Clark Road, Keithville, LA, at 1:30 PM.
