James E. Duff

James E. Duff, “Jim”, 86, passed away peacefully on November 10, 2024, at his home in Millville, after a brief illness. Born on November 18, 1937, at Altoona Hospital, to Edwin and Viola (Lloyd) Duff. Jim dedicated his life to music, the military, and teaching. After graduating from Hollidaysburg High School, Jim attended Penn State University and received a Master of Education Degree in Music. In 1954 he enlisted in the PA National Guard, 28th Division Band, and toured America and Europe, playing for presidents, dignitaries, and marching in countless parades until his retirement in 1997 after 43 years of service. In 1961 Jim began his teaching career at Millville. He taught both High School and Elementary Music, directed the band, chorus, flag corps, and taught music lessons for many of Millville’s finest, from the 60’s,70’s, 80’s, and 90s retiring in 1994.  

In 1959 Jim married the most beautiful and kindest woman he had ever met, Kathryn Neely. Together they raised four boys, Derrick (Michelle), John, Galen (Shawn) and Warren (Geraldine) in the beautiful borough of Millville. Jim loved the Millville Community and thoroughly enjoyed sitting on his front porch talking to the neighbors and folks passing by. He was always so impressed with Millville and commented many times how fortunate he and his family were to live there. 

Jim enjoyed playing music with several bands including the Catawissa Military Band, Johnny Collins and the Caravans, watching sports, motorcycles, camping, fishing the Little Fishing Creek and cross-country skiing. He also enjoyed a diverse selection of music from Maynard Ferguson to Willie Nelson. He and his family were well traveled, and in particular loved Williamsburg, Virginia. 

In addition to his wife and sons, Jim is survived by his grandchildren, Dustin (Deidra), Kathryn (Kevin), Aaron (Leah), Ethan, Maria, Michael (Stephanie), Christopher, Matthew(Tina), Galen Jr., Amanda (Joseph), Angela (El Mer), James. And his great-grandchildren, Brynn, Madison, Paden, Hannah,Josey, Willow, Aria, Zoey, Violet, Eleanor, Lukas, Joseph, Waren, Eunice. 

Jim is predeceased by his parents, sister Timberlee, and daughter-in-law Connie.

Jim was proud to be a member of the Millville Park Commission for several years and would have been grateful for any contribution in lieu of flowers to be made to the Millville Park c/o Millville Borough, PO Box 30, Millville PA 17846. 

There will be a private graveside service at the Millville Cemetery. 

Family and friends may send online condolences to bunnellfuneralhome.com.

The Bunnell Funeral Home Inc., Millville is handling arrangements.

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