James William Duning, “Bill” was born on October 17, 1943, and passed away on June 25, 2026, in Cincinnati, Ohio. He graduated from Woodward High School, University of Cincinnati, and University of Cincinnati College of Law.
Bill was larger-than-life, curious, and enthusiastic. He immersed himself in learning and loved to read and write. It was not unlikely to find him surrounded by books, newspapers, and magazines daily, always challenging himself to understand more of the world around him.
A self-proclaimed shy young man, who was fearful of public speaking as a teenager, Bill grew to become an inquisitive, well-spoken teacher, who also had a great capacity to listen to others. His parents, Dorothy and LeRoy, were successful, educated, and hearing-impaired. They taught Bill the importance of public education, leadership, and the value of communication.
After graduating from law school, Bill began his legal career as a Cincinnati Assistant City Prosecutor, then as a Cincinnati Assistant City Solicitor. He served as Lebanon City Attorney from 1974-1999. In 1975, Bill joined Meryl “Shorty” Gray as an associate in his law firm in Lebanon, from which Bill never retired. He went into the office nearly every day to do what he loved. Bill was the highest (AV Preeminent) Martindale Hubbell Peer Review Rating in both legal ability and ethical standards. He was an active member of the Warren County Bar Association, serving as President and as a member of many committees, including ten years on the Grievance Committee. He was also an active member of the Ohio State Bar Association, having been the first Warren County lawyer elected by attorneys in five counties to the Ohio State Bar Association Board of Governors.
After overcoming his natural shyness, Bill was a leader in the community, serving in various leadership roles with the Warren County Historical Society, the Area Progress Council of Warren County, the Mathers Mill Social Club, and his Woodward High School Class of 1961. He was a member of Lebanon Elks Lodge #422, the International Order of Odd Fellows, and the Greater Cincinnati BMW Motorcycle Club.
From a young age, Bill acquired many things that he became passionate about. One of these lifelong passions was collecting and riding motorcycles, often for long distances with his wife,
Jane. He specifically loved to travel to Arches National Park in Moab, Utah, which he considered his “spiritual place”. Known for his eclectic style, Bill had an eye for turning something ordinary into something extraordinary, which became apparent anytime you entered into his office or residence. His presence was felt in every room he walked into, never meeting a stranger, and his life was highlighted by generosity and philanthropy.
He leaves behind Jane, his wife of 60 years, sons Alan (Joey), and David (Coni) and grandchildren Tyler, Zane, and Andelyn. Bill also leaves behind many dear friends, including Cara, his trusted assistant and most loyal confidante, who held a special place in his life and heart.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Harmon Museum, 105 S. Broadway, Lebanon, Ohio 45036, where Bill dedicated much of his time and energy.
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Major & Rose weber says
July 2, 2026 at 8:10 pmThere is a song called “Dreams” about memories having a place to go and memories of Bill will always have a place in our hearts …
Missy & Mark Fisk says
July 3, 2026 at 9:48 pmBill was a dear friend fellow collector, moto head and customer who had one of the best eyes on finding extortionary items and who could have become a interior decorator had he not been a lawyer. Jane and Bill would peruse our store and always find the most unusual and well crafted pieces for their office or home and later tell us where it was placed and how much he love gathering things that meant something to him. He never met a stranger and was able to engage anyone no matter their back round or what they did they always felt special after talking to Bill. Missy and I will truly miss this one of a kind person, the mold was broken when Bill came into this world, there will never be another Bill Duning. Our thoughts go out to Jane and the family at this difficult time.
Judge Robert Ringland says
July 5, 2026 at 2:45 pmI’ve known Bill for many years and found him to be likeable and scholarly attorney. I know the community has lost a leader. My condolences to Jane and the family for their loss.
Brian Phillips says
July 6, 2026 at 6:30 pmBill was truly an extraordinary man.
What began as an attorney-client relationship grew into so much more. He became a mentor, someone I deeply respected, and someone I was always genuinely happy to see whenever our paths crossed again.
My heartfelt condolences go out to the Duning family and everyone at Grey & Duning. Lebanon has lost not only an exceptional attorney, but also an incredible mentor, a trusted friend to so many, and a true pillar of this community.
He will be greatly missed, but the impact he made on the lives of others will never be forgotten.
Guy Wolf & Jane Misiewicz says
July 7, 2026 at 7:16 pmBill was a great friend to my wife, Jane and me. We will miss his smile, his warmth, his humor. And of course, we’ll miss the most outlandish birthday cards we ever get from anyone. To Jane and all of Bill’s family and great friends – we are truly sorry for the loss of this fine man.
John Holschuh says
July 8, 2026 at 1:44 pmI had the great honor of working with Bill on a number of cases over many years. He was a true “lawyer’s lawyer” and a good friend. I will miss his warm smile and firm handshake. Jane and family, my deepest sympathy for your loss.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Harmon Museum, 105 S. Broadway, Lebanon, Ohio 45036, where Bill dedicated much of his time and energy.