Barbara Jean Duffy

Barbara was born in San Diego, CA to Grace and Earle Massey on February 17, 1932, and entered into rest October 1, 2015. She spent her childhood in the San Diego area, and at the age of 11 lost her dad, a casualty of WWII. From then on it was just she and her Mom. As a teenager, she decided she wanted to become a Catholic, and was baptized. She met the love of her life, John Duffy, at a CYO (Catholic Youth Organization) meeting. After Barbara earned her BS degree from San Diego State University, and John returned from serving in the Navy, they got married. They left San Diego for John to attend Cal Poly, and after his graduation and a few moves up the coast, they settled down in San Jose. Growing up as an only child, Barbara always wanted a large family. She and John fulfilled her wish and over the years had five children. Shortly after the birth of her youngest child, Barbara’s beloved Mother passed away, which left a huge hole in her heart. Despite the losses that she suffered, Barbara never lost her joy of life, optimism or quick smile. She continued to be a joyful, loving, mother and wife, and friend to many. Later in life, when she had health challenges, she met them with the same optimism, faith, and ready smile, with her devoted husband John always by her side. Although she faced significant health issues, she was always engaged and interested in the people she came in contact with. Barbara was a beautiful human being, both inside and out. She had tremendous faith in God as a devout Catholic, and always had confidence that things would work out for the best. Barbara was not afraid of moving on to eternal life, but worried about her family’s pain with her departure. She was kind, selfless, and loving to a fault. She will always be remembered for her beautiful smile and kind heart, that she gave so readily to everyone in her life. The world has lost a bright light, and she will be dearly missed. Barbara is survived by her loving husband, John Duffy; children Anne Thompson (Jerry) of Milpitas, Jim Duffy (Julianne) of Clovis, Bill Duffy (Debbie) of San Jose, Bob Duffy (Christie) of Castro Valley, Carol Harrington (Tim) of San Jose; 10 Grandchildren; and 3 Great Grandchildren. Rosary: Tuesday 10/13 at 7:30 (visitation starting at 6:30) at Lima Family Mortuary, 466 N. Winchester Blvd. Santa Clara, CA 95050. Memorial Mass: Wednesday 10/14 at 11:00 at Queen of Apostles Church, 4911 Moorpark Ave., San Jose, CA 95129. Burial immediately following at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 22555 Cristo Rey Dr., Los Altos, CA 94024. In lieu of flowers, the family gratefully asks that a donation be made to Shriner’s Hospitals for Children or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.