Duffy, Evelyn H., 85, of Sparta, New Jersey, passed away at her home on May 22, 2018, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Newark, NJ, she lived in Dover, NJ before moving to Sparta 44 years ago. An active member in her community and church, Evelyn volunteered with Meals on Wheels and, during her 30-year tenure there, helped deliver countless meals to the needy throughout Morris and Sussex counties. Together with her late husband John, Evelyn enjoyed serving as a Eucharistic Minister at Our Lady of the Lake Church in Sparta, NJ. Among the many things that brought meaning to her life, Evelyn especially loved being with her family. She particularly treasured the experiences and memories captured within her shoeboxes full of photographs of family and friends among the rocky coast of Maine, the sandy beaches of LBI, the mountains of New England, and the green fields of Ireland. She was particularly fond of her years as a season-ticket holder to The Shakespeare Theater in Madison, where she shared her love of the arts with family and friends alike. Evelyn had a unique gift of making strangers feel welcomed instantly, especially with her sharp sense of humor and her gift of laughter. Those who had the privilege of meeting her felt her love and warmth. She made the world a better, more loving and fun place. Evelyn is predeceased by her beloved ‘happy Irishman’ of 51 years, the late John Duffy. She is survived by her six children that truly loved her: Patty Pinto, John Duffy and his wife Christine, Mary Duffy, Jim Duffy and his wife Julie, Terry Collins and her husband Michael and Peter Duffy and his wife Patti Walker. Evelyn is also survived by 18 grandchildren and 1 great granddaughter. A celebration of her life, love and friends will be held on Tuesday, May 29, 2018 from 11-12:30 p.m. at the Goble Funeral Home, 22 Main St, Sparta, NJ 07871. A funeral Mass will be held at 1pm at Our Lady of the Lake Church, 294 Sparta Ave, Sparta, NJ 07871. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in her memory to: Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice Foundation, 99 Sparta Ave, Newton, NJ 07860.
