PAUL W. DUFFY

1939 - 2025

DUFFY, Paul W. A South End Original: Remembering "Duffy" March 26, 1939 – December 14, 2025 Today, March 26, 2026, would have been Paul W. Duffy's 87th birthday so it is a fitting time to remember and celebrate his life. Known to almost everyone simply as "Duffy," he passed away peacefully at home on December 14, 2025, surrounded by family and friends. A lifelong resident of Boston's South End, Duffy was a beloved and familiar presence in the neighborhood. He could often be found holding court on the stoops of his buildings, sharing greetings, laughter, and conversation with anyone passing by. His life was deeply rooted in the community he loved, and he gave generously of his time, energy, and spirit to those around him. Duffy was an invaluable member of the Ellis South End Neighborhood Association and the South End Business Alliance, and a proud member of the Greater Boston Concierge Association, where he was a constant advocate for South End businesses. He was a longtime supporter of the Boston Ballet and Project Place, and he backed his belief in community not only with his voice but with his resources-investing in local restaurants such as The Beehive and Picco. He believed wholeheartedly in supporting the people and places that made his neighborhood thrive. Always impeccably dressed and with a great sense of humor, Duffy had a natural gift for bringing people together. He loved a good meal, a good story, and, above all, a good joke. At any party, he was often the first on the dance floor. He will be remembered as a man who delighted in laughter, loved to entertain, and found joy in simply being among others. He is survived by his daughter, Siobhan Duffy Claflin; her husband, Will Claflin; and his grandchildren, Dashiell William Claflin and Alice Everly Claflin. The eldest of eight children, he also leaves behind his siblings Alan Duffy, Reda Duffy-Carlson, David Duffy, Christine Watkins, and Maureen Duffy, along with their significant others, many nieces and nephews, and countless friends and neighbors whose lives he touched. Rather than a goodbye, Duffy would want to leave you with this: "Don't forget what I told you."

View the online memorial for Paul W. DUFFY