
Obituary of James Thomas Duffin Jr.
James Thomas Duffin, affectionately known as "Duffy," passed away on January 11, 2025, at Morristown Medical Center at the age of 76. A man of boundless energy, generosity, and laughter, Duffy’s life was a testament to love, family, and community.
Born on January 2, 1949, in New York City to James and Rose Duffin, Duffy’s early years were spent in the vibrant heart of New York before his family moved to New Jersey. It was there, at North Plainfield High School, where Duffy’s passion for football first took root. As co-captain of the high school football team, his team led them to victory in the NJ Central Jersey State Championships, a triumph that earned him a spot in the North Plainfield High School Hall of Fame. His leadership on and off the field set the stage for a life of dedication and service to others.
Duffy continued to pursue his culinary skills and leadership as he attended Paul Smith College in New York on the prestigious Statler-Hilton Scholarship. After earning a degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management, he shared his love for football by coaching a youth team in Easton, Maryland, inspiring the next generation of athletes.
In his professional life, Duffy’s experience in the restaurant industry—particularly with Red Lobster—prepared him to fulfill a lifelong dream of opening his own restaurant. He opened Duffy’s Main Street Café in Mendham, where his culinary talents and business acumen made it a local favorite. After retiring in 2001, Duffy’s tireless work ethic led him to take on many odd jobs, always willing to lend a helping hand to friends and neighbors.
A member of the Mendham Pastime Club, SAL American Legion Post #390, and the Peace Pipe Country Club, Duffy was known for his sense of humor, infectious personality, and his willingness to give back to his community. He volunteered his time catering fundraising events and served as entertainment chair at both the Peace Pipe Country Club and Indian Lake Community Club where he was a long-time member, ensuring that every event was filled with joy and laughter.
Duffy’s greatest pride, however, was his family. He met the love of his life, Ellen, during a trip she took down the shore where James lived and worked, and they were married on April 1st, 1972. Together, they shared a deep bond built on love, respect, and shared adventures. Duffy was a devoted father to his daughter, Christi, with whom he shared an unbreakable connection. He passed down his love for animals and his passion for family vacations at the shore or their cherished home in Myrtle Beach.
Duffy’s ability to form deep, lasting friendships spoke to his character. His friendships spanned decades, with many of his childhood friends still by his side, testament to his unwavering loyalty and caring nature. His spirit will live on in the many people whose lives he touched, whether through his kindness, his humor, or his unwavering generosity.
James Thomas Duffin leaves behind his loving wife of 52 years, Ellen Duffin of Denville, his daughter, Christi of Sparta, his brother-in-law, Ross Kirk (Anne) of Brandon, FL, his sister-in-law, Liz Western of Peach Tree City, GA, numerous nieces and nephews all over the country, his 2 beloved kitties, and countless friends and colleagues who will remember him fondly.
He will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. If you would like to contribute to Duffy’s memory in your own way, please consider making a charitable contribution to either the Joey Bella Foundation, or to the Randolph Regional Animal Shelter.
A celebration of Duffy’s life will be held on Saturday, January 18th, from 11 to 3 PM with a service to begin at 3 PM. All are welcome to come and celebrate the life of this incredible man!