Dr. Duncan Burford, Billings psychiatrist and Dedicated Physician, Dies at 71
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Dr. Duncan Burford of Billings, Montana, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2025, at the age of 71. A respected psychiatrist with a passion for integrating mental health into broader medical practice, Dr. Burford dedicated his career to serving the Billings community and educating future healthcare professionals. He is remembered by his family, colleagues, and patients as a compassionate and insightful physician.
Early Life and Career
Dr. burford was born on Febuary 28, 1954, in Shreveport, Louisiana. He earned his medical degree and completed his psychiatric residency, establishing himself as a board-certified psychiatrist.Early in his career, he served at the Mental Health Center in Billings. He further shared his expertise by teaching at the physician assistant program at Rocky Mountain College and as a preceptor with the Riverstone Health Center Family Practice Residency Program.
Dr. Burford was a strong advocate for a holistic approach to healthcare, believing deeply in the importance of addressing mental wellbeing within the context of overall physical health. This philosophy guided his practice and teaching throughout his career.
Family and Personal Life
In 1995, Dr. Burford married Vicki Niemantsverdriet in Billings,Montana. They celebrated 30 years of marriage on January 1, 2025. He lovingly blended Vicki’s family with his own, creating a close-knit family. He enjoyed spending time at the West Boulder Reserve, a place the family intends to honor his memory with a dedicated bench.
Survivors
dr. burford is survived by his wife, Vicki; his daughter, Kristin (Alan) Brester of Fort Smith, Arkansas; his son, Drake (Ivy) Burford of Livingston, montana; his stepson, Andrew (Jessie) Niemantsverdriet of Billings; and his stepdaughter, Sara (brad) McDale of Bendigo, Australia. he also leaves behind five grandchildren: Owen (18) and Beau (16) Niemantsverdriet,Devan (14) and Alice (11) Burford,and Isla (4) McDale. He is also survived by his sister, Liz McNew of Shreveport, Louisiana, and his sister-in-law, Jean Posusta of Billings, Montana.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Alice.
Memorial and Legacy
A memorial gathering will be held at Dahl Funeral Home at 10 Yellowstone @ 2:00 p.m. on saturday,October 18,2025. The family welcomes those who wish to share memories and stories of Dr. burford. Condolences can be expressed through the Dahl Funeral Home website.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made towards the construction of a bench at the West Boulder Reserve, a place Dr. Burford cherished. Details on how to contribute will be available at the memorial gathering.
Published by Billings Gazette from Oct. 15 to Oct. 16, 2025.