John Francis Duffy

John F. “Jack” Duffy of Rye, New Hampshire, died peacefully at his daughter's home in Webster on Monday, February 17, 2025, at age 93. He was born on Grafton Hill in Worcester to the late Harold and Katherine Duffy (Ward). 

Jack graduated from St. John’s High School and Clark University, and spent most of his career in the abrasives industry as a purchasing manager with Bay State Abrasives/Dresser Industries, and later with Harrison Hager, Inc. He also served in the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict, honorably discharged in 1957.

He married the love of his life Helen O’Connell in Worcester in 1955. Together they embarked on a 45-year journey of adventure, love, and laughter, raising 3 children along the way. In 1967 they realized their dream of purchasing a beach house in Rye, establishing a gathering place for their extended family and expanding their circle of friends. After Helen’s passing in 2000, Jack moved to Rye full time, until recent health issues caused him to move to Webster under the loving care of his daughter Maureen at her home.

He leaves his devoted daughter Maureen, his son John and wife Denise, grandchildren Colleen (Bryan) Houck, Ryan (Maggie) Duffy, Brendan (Stephannie) Duffy, Kate (Rob) Briand, beloved great grandchildren Declan Duffy and Vivian Houck, daughter in law Diane Duffy, and many dear relatives and friends. He was predeceased by son Timothy Duffy in 2024, and brother William Duffy in 1997.

Dad/Papa had great devotion to his Catholic faith, actively supporting St. Theresa Parish in Rye, St. Stephen Parish in Worcester, and St. John’s High School in Shrewsbury. He was ambitious, funny, loved to tinker around his house, and root for the Boston Bruins. He was compassionate and caring, selflessly supporting his family and friends in times of need. He will be greatly missed. 

A visitation will be held Tuesday, February 25, 2025, from 8:15 to 10:15 AM at the Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel, 370 Plantation St. Worcester, with a Mass at 11 AM at St. Stephen Church, 357 Grafton St. Worcester. Burial to follow at St. John’s Cemetery, Worcester. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the American Cancer Society (https://www.cancer.org).