Jean Duffy passed away February 9 at home after a very short illness. Many of the children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were able to spend some time with her in her last days.

Her family includes her children Dan and Rebecca Sousa of Langley, John Sousa of Trinidad, Colorado and Mari and Kevin Campbell of Clinton, 6 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

Jean was an energetic and creative force who loved to help others in her Whidbey Island community through her church, St. Huberts in Langley.

Jean grew up in Albany and Berkeley, California. She excelled in academics and played piano and sang in many choirs. She graduated from SF State University.

She married John R. Sousa Jr. in 1955 and they raised their family in Lafayette, Ca. Jean was always involved in the childrens activities. Driving their 4 children to all the sports practices and competitions, keeping an active household running like a well oiled machine. She volunteered hertime to PTA, the school Womens club and sang in Santa Maria Church every Sunday.

As her children grew up, Jean went back to school at St. Marys College and received her elementary teaching certificate. She started her teaching career in 1978. In the early 80’s Jean and her second husband Jim Duffy moved to Calistoga, Ca where Jean taught middle school at St. Helena Catholic School. She really loved her teaching years and would often speak fondly of them.

When she retired from teaching, she and Jim moved to Whidbey Island to be near her daughter and family.

In retirement Jean connected with her community at St. Huberts Church in Langley, Wa. She would joke that she was busier in retirement than when she was working. She headed so many commities and started various programs to help the greater community of South Whidbey. Jean had always been an avid reader and wanted to share that love with children. She started to Red Flyer Reading Program at the SW Elementary School. She and Jim also tutored children within the school system.

Jean will be remembered at a loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother, a caring and involved community member and a friend to many. She will be greatly missed.