Obituary of Marie T Duggan

Marie Theresa Elward Duggan, a vibrant beacon of life, passed away on March 12th at Sturges Ridge, Fairfield, CT, leaving a legacy of love, laughter, and dedication to her family and community.

Born in Newark, NJ, on November 14, 1940, to John and Kathleen Elward, Irish immigrants, Marie grew up embodying the spirited warmth of her Irish American heritage. In 1965, she wed Patrick Duggan, a 2nd Lieutenant in the Air Force, also hailing from Newark. Their journey together took them from Illinois's Chanute Air Force Base to Wildwood and Cherry Hill, NJ, before finally settling in Westfield for over 47 years where they raised three sons.

Marie's life was a testament to her high energy and commitment to her community. Whether she was socializing, hosting bridge nights, volunteering at Saint Helen’s Parish, supporting the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts, tending to her garden, or playing tennis, Marie was always in motion, her life a whirlwind of activity. Her professional career was equally diverse, spanning four decades across large corporations and small businesses, and she had a meaningful stint as an occupational therapist at a rehabilitation hospital. Marie's passion for gardening culminated with the earning of a master gardener’s certification, which she proudly used at the Reeves-Reed Arboretum in Summit, NJ.

Marie Duggan was predeceased by her beloved husband Pat and is survived by her three sons (Patrick, Brian, Sean) and spouses (Maureen, Lillian, Ann) and seven grandchildren (Conor, Kara, Fiona, Lizzie, Clara, Akari, and Phineas) whom she adored.

A memorial mass will be held at Saint Helen’s Parish on April 6th at 11:30am in Westfield, N.J.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Reeves-Reed Arboretum, Summit, NJ.

For travel directions or to sign her online guest register, please visit www.LeskoFuneralHome.com