In Memory of James Duff

Obituary

Utica – James Duff, 79, of Utica, passed away peacefully at Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare in New Hartford on Friday, March 26, 2021.

He was born December 29, 1941, in Utica, to Oliver J. and Helene (Fellows) Duff, and received his education in Utica City schools.

On April 23, 1962, he married the former Antoinette Iannone at Calvary Church in Utica. Mrs. Duff passed away December 30, 1998.

Jim was employed as a machinist, first at the former UNIVAC Division of Sperry Rand Corporation, and later at the former Bossert Manufacturing Co. in Utica. In his leisure time he enjoyed both large and small game hunting in the Unadilla, Bridgewater and West Winfield areas, and fishing. At one time he was involved with competitive pistol shooting, having obtained a Marksman rating. He was a life member of the National Rifle Association, and enjoyed his memberships in the Ilion and Burlington Flats Fish & Game Clubs. Jim also enjoyed driving his prized possession, a 1970 Chevrolet Nova.

Survivors include four sons and one daughter, Oliver, David, and Thomas (Marisol) Duff, all of Utica, Sherri Rowe and her husband, David, of Rome, and Michael Duff and his fiancé Brianne Karam, of New Hartford; grandchildren Zachary Duff, Marissa, Mackenzie and Jacob Rowe, David-Michael, Christina, Robert and Collin Duff, and James III, Carrie and Shawn Duff; thirteen great-grandchildren, remembering especially Charlotte; three sisters, Jean Latray, Jane Marsden and Sonja Jacquay; several nieces and nephews; a special sister-in-law, Elvira Main; and many good friends. In addition to his wife, he was predeceased by a son, James, Jr.; two brothers, Donald and Oliver Duff; and three sisters, Linda LaGray, Joann Crouse and Lori Viti.

Jim’s funeral will be Wednesday at 12 o’clock (noon) at Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services, 1123 Court Street, Utica.  Interment in Crown Hill Memorial Park will immediately follow the funeral. An hour of visitation will precede the funeral, beginning at 11 o’clock. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a contribution in Jim’s memory to Feed Our Vets, 587 Main Street, New York Mills, NY 13417 or the National Rifle Association, 11250 Waples Mill Road, Fairfax, VA 22030. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.