Judith "Judy" Anne Duff's Obituary
Judith “Judy” Anne Duff, born Judith Anne Eberle, died on May 3, 2015. She is survived by her husband of 47 years, Patrick; her four children, Joanne, Bryan, Jon, and Brandon; her three daughters-in-law, Jennifer, Kerin, and Ashley; and her six grandchildren, Maya, Liam, Aidan, Kelsey, Avery, and Klara.
Born March 16, 1946, to Audrey and John Eberle, Judy became an elementary school teacher, barely taller than some of her students. After her husband retired from the military and the family moved to Gainesville in 1989, Judy started a second career teaching preschool--finally a group of students who had to look up to her. But here’s the thing: everyone who met Judy Duff did look up to her. Because she was the truest friend, always listening and supporting people quietly. Because she was the best mother, loving unconditionally and helping each of her children find their very different ways. Because she was the most extraordinary wife, a partner to her husband for everything--things she liked a lot (like Gator basketball) and things she liked a little less (tv shows with breathless action)--and a gentle but dogged horizon-expander for him. Because she grounded the entire family and was the center of their universe. Because she was an engaged community member, volunteering for Gainesville Harvest and the local hospice, singing in the church choir and serving as a Eucharistic minister, to name just a few organizations and activities that benefited from her huge heart. And because Judy Duff was a once-in-a-lifetime teacher for young children. It’s rumored that more than a few couples in Gainesville had additional children just so that “Ms. Judy” could work her magic again. Her passions were simple but profound: her faith, her love of family, her love for teaching and mentoring young children. Her virtues were many: resolute honesty and integrity, unending kindness and empathy, open-mindedness, and extraordinary grace and humility.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Ms. Judy Endowed Scholarship Fund (msjudyfund.weebly.com). This fund will support one family each year in sending a child to Stepping Stones Preschool, where Judy worked for more than 10 years.
A Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, May 9, 11 am at Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 10800 S.W. 24th Avenue, Gainesville with Fr. Jeff McGowan as celebrant.
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