John K. Duffy, Sr.

John Kevin Duffy, Sr, age 74, passed peacefully into the presence of his Lord and Savior on June 11, 2026. During his recent illness, John’s beloved wife, family and extended church family showered him with love, prayers, encouragement, and support.

Born on May 19, 1952, in Newark, New Jersey, John moved to Chattanooga at age 12 after his dad’s sudden death from a heart attack. This is where he spent the remainder of his life building deep roots in his community.

A devoted Christian, John lived his faith every day. He was a dedicated member of Purpose Church , where he and his wife, Faye, were blessed throughout the years with a close-knit community of very dear friends. His faith in God and love for Jesus was the foundation of his life and guided the kindness, generosity, and compassion he showed to others.

His other greatest joy was his family. Nothing made him happier than gathering with family and friends to share meals, stories, laughter, and fellowship. He was a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who treasured every opportunity to spend time with those he cared so deeply about. Even in his 70’s he was always up for a game of freeze tag with his 3 youngest grandsons who also took great delight in climbing him like a tree. They will remember him as “the best Poppy in the whole world.”

John was preceded in death by his parents, Robert R. and Helen Egan Duffy as well as his two brothers, Robert, Jr. and Andrew Duffy along with a nephew, Brian Duffy. He is survived by his wife of 34 years, (Alice) Faye Duffy, three sons, John Kevin Duffy, Jr. (Tiffany), James Randall Duffy (Andi) and Michael Tully Duffy (Sophie), six grandsons (Sean, Ian, Weslan, Nicodemus, Ruairi, and Cassian), two granddaughters (Katie and Kaylan ) and a great-grandson, three year old TK. They all brought him immeasurable happiness. He also leaves behind a sister, Mary Duffy (Gary) a brother, David Duffy (Cathy) and a niece and nephew, Laura Higbee and Benjamin Duffy.

Known for his generous spirit, John quietly helped family members, church ministries, friends, and strangers in need. He gave freely of his time, resources, and encouragement, never seeking recognition but always endeavoring to serve. He was an elder at Purpose Church where he also served as the men’s fellowship lead and the head of security.

During his school years, John was widely known and well-liked by his classmates. He developed a love of football in middle school and continued playing throughout high school, forming friendships and memories that lasted a lifetime.

He proudly served his country in the National Guard from 1982 to 1988.

Following his military service, he worked driving a truck for Bi-Lo and later for Southern Champion Tray, where he remained until his retirement in 2019. He was respected for his strong work ethic, skill, reliability, and dedication.

John will be remembered as a man of unwavering faith, deep devotion to family, and a sincere generosity of spirit. His life touched countless people, and his legacy of love, service, and Christian faith will continue through the family and friends who were blessed to know him.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

The family will receive friends from 2-6 PM on Sunday, June 21st and 11-12 Monday June 22at the Chattanooga Funeral Home East at 404 South Moore Road. Funeral services will take place at the funeral home at noon on Monday, June 22 followed by burial at Hamilton Memorial Gardens.

Memorial contributions may be made Purpose Church 5251 Highway 153 Hixson, Tennessee 37343 Marked for John Duffy expenses.