Leon A. Duff

VASSALBORO – Leon A. Duff, 89, of Vassalboro, with family by his side, passed into life everlasting on Sept. 9, 2024.

Lee was born on June 5, 1935, at his homestead in East Hodgdon, to Maurice and Ruth Barton Duff and was the ninth of 10 children. He graduated from Ricker Classical Institute in 1953 and went on to obtain a bachelor’s degree in education from Bob Jones University in 1957.

He started his career as a high school English teacher in New Haven, Conn., and eventually received his master’s degree and post master’s certificate in Education Administration from the University of Connecticut. Lee was passionate about Education and worked his way through the ranks to eventually become assistant superintendent at Amity Regional School District and then superintendent of schools in Woodbury and Bethlehem, Conn. In 1984, he moved his family back to Maine where he spent 17 years as superintendent of schools for Winslow, Vassalboro and China, and retired in 2001 after 44 years in education.

Lee was an active member of Winslow Congregational Church and spent much of his retirement volunteering his services to United Way, Kennebec Behavioral Health, and Hospice Volunteers of the Waterville Area. He was an avid racquetball player and known for his quick wit, dry humor and sage advice. He loved to play cribbage and was a fierce competitor during outdoor family horseshoes and washers tournaments. Family fun was always on the agenda, but not until the work was done. He was ready with a chore or project as soon as help arrived. He was generous, kind and giving. When he saw or heard of a need, he offered help and guidance. He shared stories and wisdom with family, friends, colleagues and acquaintances. He made a difference for many people. Lee once said “As long as I am able, I want to make a difference and that’s the bottom line.” And that is truly how he lived his life.

Lee is survived by his loving wife Barbara; children Bruce and (Leslie) Duff of Plain City, Ohio, Suzanne and (Chuck) Rogers of Colchester, Conn., Kathryn and (Robby) Pelotte of Hallowell, Maury and (Pennie) Duff of Brewer, and Emelia and (Patrick) Strainge of Woolwich; 10 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren with two more on the way.

He was predeceased by his devoted first wife, Ann Barnes Duff; his parents; and five siblings.

The family also offers heartfelt thanks to Lee’s long-time aid and caring friend, Joanne Caron.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 12 at Winslow Congregational Church, 12 Lithgow St., in Winslow.

Here is the link for the livestream – https://www.youtube.com/live/PGQCl-CcwFl?si=PGQSC1LnYFbK96za .

Memorial gifts may be made to Maine General Homecare and Hospice, in gratitude for their kind and compassionate care in Lee’s final weeks.