Helen J. Duffy Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

“Allow the light and the healing presence of Christ to shine brightly through your lives. In that way, all those who come in contact with you will discover the loving kindness of God.” — St. Pope John Paul II Helen Joan Duffy, Age 91, of Sterling Heights passed away peacefully on Monday, November 17, 2025 surrounded by family. Born on her family farm in Boyne Falls, MI, to the late Peter and Sophie Cieslak, Helen was one of eleven children. She shared stories of having the daily chore of milking cows before school, picking beans on her farm and picking cherries for another farmer with her siblings for $1 a day. After graduating from high school, she moved to the Detroit area where she met and married her late, former husband David Duffy. Together they built a house in Roseville and later moved to a 5-acre farmhouse in Sterling Heights while raising their three children. Some of her greatest joy came from creating memories with her children, grandchildren and extended family at their cabin on Otsego Lake in Gaylord. She enjoyed dancing and was sure to attend the annual Boyne Falls Polish Festival with her siblings, among other family and friends. Helen also enjoyed traveling, senior bus trips, trips to Odawa casino with her sister or friend, playing the daily/weekly lottery, and in her later years, scratch-off tickets! Helen did everything with honesty and integrity and had very strong values which she has passed on to her children. Those who knew Helen will remember her for her strong work ethic, generosity, kindness, love and compassion for others, and deep-rooted faith in God. She was easy to like and had several life-long friendships. She was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Helen’s passing has left a void in the hearts of her family, friends, neighbors and many more whose lives were touched by her. There are no words that can express how grateful she was to have neighbors who were always looking out for her, truly a blessing to our whole family. Helen is survived by her beloved children: Patrick (Cathy) Duffy, Brian Duffy and Kelly (Tom) Kinney. Helen was also the cherished grandma of Jennifer (Paul) Reno, Lisa (Troy) Rogers and Bradley Duffy; Loving great-grandma to Ben, Hannah and Luke Reno & Serena, Ashton and Maria Rogers. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who adored her dearly. The family is planning a private funeral mass and burial.

Helen J. Duffy

September 1, 1934 - November 17, 2025