Eileen R Duva

Eileen R. Duva passed away peacefully at the age of 97.5 in her home in Winter Park, Florida, on February 4, 2025, surrounded by love. Her devoted daughters, Lisa and Madeline, were by her side, along with her cherished friends-her "daughters from other mothers" -Dorothy Gabriel and Cherylanne Martin, who were there to see her off.
Eileen was a woman of remarkable strength, kindness, and humor, embodying grace even in the face of life's greatest hardships. She found joy in the smallest moments, always offering a kind word exactly when it was needed most. Her presence was a gift and imagining a world without her is unfathomable.
She is survived by her loving daughters, Lisa Duva of Casselberry, Florida, and Madeline Duva of San Francisco, as well as her daughter-in-law, Melanie Born of San Francisco. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, James S. Duva; her son, James R. Duva; and her daughters, Marianne Duva (betrothed to Thomas C. Dickinson) and Carolyn Duva, all of Winter Park, Florida. She is also preceded by her dear sister, Marilyn Konzet of East Hampton, NY. Eileen leaves behind many beloved cousins who were like brothers to her, including Herb Willis (wife Peg), Roger Willis (wife Shannon), Robert Brady (Margaret), and Jack Rogers (wife Elizabeth). She also leaves behind a large and loving extended family of nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews, whom she adored and kept close to her heart. Despite the unimaginable sorrow of losing three of her children, Eileen faced each day with gratitude, wonder, and an infectious zest for life that uplifted everyone around her.
Born on August 5, 1927, in Bayside, NY, to Margaret Daniels Rogers and John Rogers, Eileen was an intelligent and driven woman. She earned her bachelor's degree in History and Economics from Queens College before meeting the love of her life, James (Jim) Sebastian Duva, at a water fountain at work in Port Washington, NY. They married in 1951 in NY, moving to Washington DC to begin their journey together, where they welcomed their son, Jimmy. Their growing family later moved to Natick, MA, where their four daughters, Marianne, Carolyn, Lisa, and Madeline, were born. Ever curious and ambitious, Eileen returned to school for her Master's in Education from Framingham State Teachers College. In 1967, the family relocated to Maitland, Florida, where Jim served as head of R&D at the Orlando Navy base.
Eileen was a dedicated educator, teaching both elementary and high school students for many years before embarking on a successful career in real estate. But she was no ordinary real estate agent-Eileen played an integral role in welcoming the Orlando Magic Basketball team to the city, helping many now-legendary players find their homes. Standing just 5'3", she held her own among towering athletes, earning their respect with her wit, confidence, and unwavering professionalism. She remained active in real estate until the age of 90, a true powerhouse in every sense of the word.
Beyond her professional achievements, Eileen was deeply committed to her community. She served on the board and later as chair of the Maitland Recreation Board, acted as Maitland's representative to the Orange County Council on Aging, and helped raise funds for Morning Star Catholic School, which educates children with disabilities. She was instrumental in developing the Maitland tennis courts, now part of Minnehaha Park. Amidst her many responsibilities, she found time to nurture a lively household filled with children, dogs, cats, rabbits, and ducks. She was an avid bridge player, a passionate tennis and downhill skiing enthusiast, and a fearless water skier. But above all, she was a remarkable mother, friend, and human being.
A memorial service will be held at 2:30 PM on March 14, 2025, at Saint Margaret Mary Church, 526 North Park Avenue, with Father Walsh officiating. A celebration of Eileen's extraordinary life will follow. All who knew and loved her are invited to attend and raise a glass in her honor.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Eileen Duva's name to:
? Morning Star Catholic School of Orlando https://www.morningstarorlando.org/
? Pet Alliance of Orlando https://petallianceorlando.org/
Eileen's legacy of love, resilience, and boundless generosity will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.