Jupiter, Fla. – Richard J. Duddy, 85, formerly of Waltham, Wellesley, Green Harbor, and Northborough, passed away Thursday, Feb. 16, 2012. His loving wife of 48 years, Mary M. (Skahill) Duddy, predeceased him in November 1998.
He is survived by his children, Richard J. Duddy Jr. (Kathy) of Plymouth, Janice A. Larrabee of Pawtucket, R.I., Joanne M. Mallozzi (Anthony III) of Westborough, and Jeanne M. Constable (Butch) of Jupiter, Fla.; and eight grandchildren, Karalyn and her husband Erik Manzelli, Anthony IV and Kimberly Mallozzi, Ricky, Holly and Tommy Duddy, Chris and Jenny Constable. He was predeceased by his four brothers, Francis, Raymond, Paul and Ronald, and two sisters, Rita Skahill and Charlotte McSorley.
Born in Long Island City, New York, he was the son of the late Francis M. and Grace J. (Morris) Duddy. He served his nation proudly during World War II in the United States Army.
Mr. Duddy was a longtime captain with the Wellesley Fire Department, where he worked for 31 years. He retired in 1982. He was a member and Past Commander of the Wellesley VFW Post 5190. He was a member of the American Legion in both Northborough and Jupiter, the VFW in Hope Sound, Fla., the Elks Club in Hudson, and the International Association of Fire Fighters. He was a member of the New England Football Officials Association and an original member of the Wellesley Municipal Employee Federal Credit Union.
He was a loving and caring husband, father and grandfather, also known as Pop, who found great joy in his family and close friends. His care and love for others will be an inspiration to the many people he was blessed to have known.
Calling hours will be held Wednesday, Feb. 22, from 4 to 8 p.m., at the Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel, 370 Plantation St., Worcester. His funeral will be held Thursday, Feb. 23 from the funeral home, with a Mass at 10:30 a.m. in Saint Mary of The Hills Church, 630 Cross St., Boylston. Interment will follow in Howard Street Cemetery of Northborough. At a future date, a memorial celebration will be held in his honor in Jupiter.
In lieu of flowers, donations honoring his memory may be made to Saint Mary of The Hills Church, 630 Cross St., Boylston, MA 01505.
For directions or to leave a message of condolence, visit www.mercadantefuneral.com.
