Helen Elizabeth Duffy

Helen Elizabeth Duffy was born into new life on the morning of February 21, 2018. She died at Westminster-Thurber, her home for the last nine years. She is preceded in death by her parents: Helen Marie Hecht Duffy and Francis Joseph (Frank) Duffy. Also, by her good friend and life partner, Barbara "Barb" Bostic. Life began for Helen Duffy at St. Ann's Hospital on February 9, 1934. Her first home was at 258 Hanford Street, on the South Side of Columbus, Ohio. Later, the family moved to 263 E. Mithoff Street. Helen and her mother lived in that home until her mother's death in 1969. At that time, at the suggestion of a friend, Barb came to live with Duff. Not only did Barb fill the space left by Duffs mother, she actually was gifted with the same caring and considerate personality that Helen Marie expressed in her life. Duffs early education took place at St. Leo's Catholic Elementary School, where Duff made friends, many of whom have accompanied her through out her life. Next, she attended St. Mary's High School in German Village, where she played in the band and was an active Shutter Bug in Sister Arsenia's photography class. Her bright Irish wit and love of a good time enabled her to continue to make more lifelong friendships. In 1952, Duff entered St. Francis Hospital School of Nursing bringing her wit and wry humor with her to the delight of the nuns at St. Francis, the patients in the hospital and the new friends added to the list. After graduation, and a short time at St. Anthony's Hospital, Duff entered Ohio State University to obtain her Bachelor of Science in Nursing, while working nights at Children's Hospital. She then went on to receive her Masters Degree at a branch of Central Michigan University. The last 20-25 years of her nursing career were spent at Riverside Methodist Hospital, where she held the position of Educational Manager of Surgical Services. Fran, who worked with Duff for many years in that department said, "Duff was my mentor. Always gave me good advice. I respected her. We had a lot of fun and got into trouble together." While working at Riverside Hospital and into her retirement, Duff enjoyed golfing with friends at the OSU Golf Course, tailgating at OSU Football Games, and cheering for the OSU Women's Basketball Team. Duff and Barb traveled frequently and were always ready for the next adventure. In 2004 they traveled to Ireland to visit friends, Paddy and Verna Mulcahy, in County Cork. An experience high on Duff's list of Irish celebrations and cherished memories. Remaining to remember her: Family of Nancy and Don Kelley - Aunt Duff to Colleen, Maureen, Tim, Terry, Patrick, Peggy, and Godchild, Kathleen. Some expressions of their feelings: "My old Godmother, Duff”, as she always called herself ... Kathleen. "Her gift of a wonderful sense of humor, always shared with others, lifting their spirits, especially in tough times." ... Tim. "Duff was one of a kind. Always brought a smile to my face." ...Terry. "What a special friend she was -like a sister to you (Mom) and an aunt to us. God bless Duff”…Patrick. "One of a kind and a joy to know." ... Peggy "I have such good memories of Duff, my whole life." ... Maureen. Faithful and caring friends: Matt and Nina Keyes, the Staff at Westminster-Thurber, Connie who ate at table with Duff. Distant relatives, discovered late in Duffs life: Sister Margaret Hoffman and Family, much to her delight! Also, a list of long time friends and loved ones-- too long to mention, here. To fulfill her wishes, all are invited to join in an Irish Wake to be held on Sunday, April 8, 2018 from 3-5 pm or until all the stories are heard. Plank’s Café at 743 Parsons Avenue. Private burial at St. Joseph Cemetery. Rest in peace, dear friend. All is well! 

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