Elizabeth Duffy

Elizabeth “Betty” Duffy, nee McGowan; Beloved wife of Albert Duffy, former owner of Sabre Finer Foods in Cicero; Devoted mother of Alanna (Jeremiah) Pelowski of Winona, MN; Brian (Marianna) Duffy of San Marcos, CA; Frank Duffy; Patrick (Eloise) Duffy of Tokyo, Japan; Loving daughter of the late Frank and Elizabeth McGowan; Dear sister of Noreen Maye, Margaret Mazzuca and preceded in death by five siblings: Mary, Rodger, Martin, Packy, Frank; Dear Grandmother “Nana” of Brian, Sofia and Waylon; Dear aunt of many nieces and nephews.

Betty grew up on the West Coast of Ireland in County Mayo and came to the States when she married Al. Betty had a drive for life and a life well-lived. She was proud of her Irish heritage and passed it along to all who knew her, sharing her Soda Bread and encouraging her daughter to stick with Irish Dance. Her subtle Irish wit will be missed. She modeled the value of hard work and used to say, “If something is worth doing, it is worth doing right the first time!” She was great at gathering family and friends together and liked to know what everyone was up to. Her children and their friends all have great memories of Betty, especially those who called her the “Cookie Lady.” She loved each of the positions she held at Lake Park High School, getting to work with students and staff regularly. She knew how to make the perfect cuppa tea with toast and always ensured guests didn’t leave the house hungry or thirsty. Betty loved her family and will be greatly missed. She was truly a gift.