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Michael E.
Duffy
Nov 25, 1946 — Oct 5, 2026
Tuesday
A. J. Spadafora Funeral Home
5:00 - 7:00 pm (Eastern time)
Tuesday
A. J. Spadafora Funeral Home
Starts at 7:00 pm (Eastern time)
Michael E. Duffy, 79, of Malden, Massachusetts, passed away on October 5, 2026, just shy of his 80th birthday.
He was born in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1946 to his parents, William B. Duffy and Maria Duffy Fink. Michael is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Darlene Duffy. He was the loving father of Michael E. Duffy II and his partner, Janice Whitney; Sherry L. Duffy; and Sheila Willcox and her husband, Bill. He was the proud grandfather of Christine Oliver, Courtney Davis, William A. Davis Jr. (Billy Boy), and Joseph Garbarino III. He is also survived by his brother, James Duffy of Saugus, Massachusetts.
Michael was predeceased by his brothers, Bill, Stephen (Dee), and Kenny, and his grandson, Stephen Garbarino. He was also preceded in death by his beloved canine companion, Bella, who passed away just two days before Michael and had been a faithful source of comfort and companionship in his later years.
Michael was a career boilermaker and worked for Kendall Boiler & Tank in Cambridge, Massachusetts, for more than two decades. He was a longtime member of the Eastside Athletics Association, where he formed many lasting friendships and became a well-loved member of the community.
Michael was known for his warm personality, quick sense of humor, and easygoing nature. He never took himself too seriously and had a way of making those around him feel welcome. He was especially loved by his children's friends, many of whom were welcomed around the dinner table and at backyard BBQs.
In his free time, Michael enjoyed fishing, NASCAR, classic rock, a good cigar, and a cold beer. Daytona Beach, Florida, held a special place in his heart. He spent much of his youth there with his brothers and eventually met his wife, Darlene, as well as his brothers- and sisters-in-law. Throughout his life, Daytona remained a place he considered home and returned to for comfort and relaxation.
Known affectionately as Papa, Michael was deeply loved by his family, including his extended family. He will be remembered for his kindness, humor, loyalty, and the quiet goodness he brought to the lives of those around him.
Michael will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Visitation will be held at A. J. Spadafora Funeral Home, 865 Main Street, Malden on Tuesday October 13th from 5:00pm-7:00pm followed by a prayer service in the funeral home at 7:00pm. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend.
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