Obituary of Anne Marie Duffie

Following a journey full of life, love and adventure, the family of Anne Marie Duffie announce her peaceful passing with family by her side on Thursday, January 17th, 2019, at Hospice House in Fredericton, New Brunswick. Born Naomi Anne Marie Amos in Montreal on March 17th, 1934, she was the daughter of the late Dr. Edward and Mrs. Naomi (O’Connell) Amos and beloved wife of the late William "Bill" Rutledge Duffie. To all who knew her, Anne Marie was a strong, vibrant, and intelligent woman with a sharp wit and a steadfast nature. She loved her family and friends fiercely and her life energy filled the room wherever she went. She was a survivor; battling Polio in her youth, including spending a year in an iron lung, and was not expected to walk again. But she did. She spoke fondly of the days where, as a young adult, she travelled to Bermuda and worked for a time in the hospitality industry. During her 37 years of married life with Bill, Anne Marie was by his side, providing a strong support system to his prestigious and multifaceted public career. Beloved memories of her with family and friends are filled with time spent both at the cottage in Grand Lake during the family’s early years and later on at the camp at Big Kedron Lake. Anne Marie had a deep love of animals, particularly horses, dogs and a multitude of wildlife. She counted moose in the cove and named the loons in the lake. She could often be found sporting a pair of binoculars. She loved the sun and spent much of her time outdoors; snowmobiling, boating, and fly fishing in her earlier years, and gardening throughout her life. She took pride in her gardens and added her own personal touches with ornaments, fountains and furniture, enhanced with a little paint and a lot of creativity. The patio garden was often the backdrop for visits with her friends and her sister, Suzette. She had many nicknames, but her favorite was "the little one," given to her by her dear friend Lois, whose daily calls and conversations she adored. Celebrating her Irish heritage, she was pleased to be born on St. Patrick’s Day. She celebrated Easter and Christmas with dedication and her home was splendidly decorated for the holidays. She had a unique style that was both colourful and tasteful. Anne Marie was always gracious and made others feel comfortable in her company. She will be remembered for her sense of humour and her candy drawer of abundance that was always fully stocked with various chocolates and other treats. Throughout her long life, Anne Marie was always a devoted Catholic, attending mass every week. Her family and friends will treasure the blessing of knowing and loving this very special lady. Anne Marie is survived by her chosen children, her sons Michael Duffie and Christopher Duffie and his wife Amanda (nee Fevens) of Jewetts Mills, NB, her daughter Colleen DiGiacinto and her husband Richard of Fredericton, NB, her sister Suzette Amos of Westmount, QC, grandchildren Jacob and Brooklyn Duffie and William and Monica DiGiacinto, her loyal companion, Panda, and many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends. Along with her parents and husband Bill, Anne Marie was predeceased by her brother Edward Amos. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Oromocto Funeral Home, 108 Winnebago St, Oromocto, NB 506) 357-5100 where visitation will be held Thursday, January 24th, 2019 from 2-4 and 6-8 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, January 25th, 2019 from St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 25 Loisville St, Oromocto, NB at 11 am with a reception to follow in the hall. Interment will ensue in the spring in the church cemetery. Donations in Anne Marie’s memory can be made to Hospice House