Mary Margaret Duffy

It was a beautiful day, the sun had risen, the birds were singing and Mary Duffy went to heaven.

Mary Margaret Duffy was born Nov. 12, 1947 to Frank and Margaret (Reh) Duffy — “her angel”. As a longtime Shawnee resident, Mary spent her early years at home with her loving family. In 1977 Johnson County began a program for developmentally disabled adults. Formal education was not available for special needs at that time and through JCDS Mary was given the opportunity to grow and work with other adults in a safe environment.

Mary was employed by Johnson County Developmental Supports for over 36 years. She had an excellent work ethic and went to work every day until recently, when her disability prevented her from attending. She was honored in 2005 with an award from JCDS for over 25 years of service.

Mary loved music, her ‘tunes’, especially the Beatles, and knew the words to all of the popular songs. She loved to sing and dance and enjoyed playing her dad’s acoustic guitar. She was always ready for the party, especially family gatherings!

Mary loved her family, all things pink, her birthday, Christmas, crossword puzzles, paint by numbers, and her dog Taco Duffy.

If you wanted to get Mary’s attention, all you had to do was mention a cup of coffee, Zarda Barbecue, or Red Lobster, and she was ready to go.

Mary lived with her family at home until her mothers’ passing in 2005. She then had the opportunity to live in two exceptional group homes, one in Olathe, KS and more recently in Merriam, KS where she began care with Hospice.

Mary is survived by her sister Sharon Duffy Stasi and her brother-in-law Rick Stasi, her nephew Adam Stasi, his wife Amanda, and great niece Kinley Ann. Also surviving are her niece Allison Stasi Nigro and husband Michael, and great nephew Benjamin, and soon to be new baby Nigro.

Mary was a bright spot in many lives. She was blessed with many friends and a family who loved her.

The family wishes to thank all of Mary’s caregivers and staff members who helped her achieve and live a full, happy and productive life, with unparalleled devotion, dedication and love. We acknowledge the entire staff of JCDS, the house staff of 154th in Olathe, the staff of Mackey House in Merriam, and the caregivers of KC Hospice.

The celebration of Mary’s life will take place Friday, May 17, 2013 at St. Joseph Church, 11311 Johnson Drive, Shawnee, KS 66216. The visitation will begin at 9:30 am with Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00.

Please omit flowers and kindly honor Mary’s memory with donations to Friends of JCDS, 10501 Lackman Road Lenexa, KS 66219 - or Kansas City Hospice and Palliative Care, 9221 Ward Parkway, Suite 100, KCMO 64114.