Cole Andrew Duffy, adoring husband to Mary, father of six, grandfather of seven, educator, mentor and sometimes poet, passed away at his home on Monday, July 14th, surrounded by his children, grandchildren and loving wife. He was 74 years of age.
Cole was born to Sarah Alyce and Leo Eugene Duffy of Dunkirk, Indiana on January 5th, 1951. He was raised by his mother and two older brothers, Julian and Gabriel after the untimely death of his father three months after his birth.
Cole felt particularly influenced by his father’s sister, Aunt Mimi and “Unc”, his familial priest whom provided direction and mentorship to young Cole.
Remembered for his brilliant sense of humor, spirited laugh and exuberant voice, Cole was many things to many people. His students will remember his unwavering commitment to their education and his loud voice echoing through the halls of Raymond B. Stewart Middle School.
Cole’s children will remember his value of hard work and harder laughter. His wife will remember his unapologetic affection, always assuring she knew how much he loved her with his entire being.
When you wanted to find Cole, you could follow the laughter of all those that encountered him. If that was not enough, just listen for the enthusiastic whistling from the greenhouse, where Cole’s true love of all things green sought the same spring of life he gave to so many. For certain, you always knew when Cole was walking through the halls, tending to his flowers or entertaining a crowd of friends.
Upon his passing, Cole was reunited with both of his parents, Sarah and Eugene Duffy, his brother Julian Duffy and his eldest son, Erin Duffy. Carrying his laughter and life forward are his wife Mary Westerheide Duffy, his children Erica Miller, Gabriel Duffy, Gaevin Duffy, Julian Duffy and Sarah Duffy, his grandchildren Nathanial Miller, Natalee Miller, Rylan Duffy, Emmeri Duffy, Finley Duffy, Declan Duffy and Magnolia Duffy.
Cole’s wife and family will be welcoming his friends and acquaintances to join them on Saturday, July 26th, 2025. Attendees are encouraged to wear GREEN at Cole’s request to honor his lineage as a proud Irish American.
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
32145 St. Joe Road, Dade City, Florida, 33525
• A Visitation will begin at 10:30 a.m.
• Catholic Funeral Mass will begin at 11:00 a.m.
Following Mass, a reception and celebration of Cole’s incredible journey through life will be held at Cole & Mary’s residence:
7321 Bay Pines Dr.
Wesley Chapel, Florida, 33544
There will be tears, but as Cole would have it, he can rest assured there will be many more laughs to comfort our loss of such an incredible husband, father, grandfather, friend, teacher, mentor and sometimes poet.
We love you, Cole Andrew!