Louise ‘Higgins’ Duffy Obituary, Rockland County, NY – The community of West Nyack, New York, and beyond is united in mourning the loss of Louise Duffy (née Higgins), who passed away on November 20, 2024, at the age of 42. A cherished wife, devoted mother, and admired business owner, Louise succumbed to synovial sarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer. Her passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, but her legacy of resilience, kindness, and love lives on in the hearts of those she touched.
Born on September 10, 1982, in Dundalk, Ireland, Louise grew up as part of a close-knit family rooted in strong values and a rich cultural heritage. She was the daughter of Edward Higgins and Dymphna McKenna and was surrounded by the love of her siblings—Sean, Liam, Oisin, David, Angela, and Danielle. Her Irish roots were a fundamental part of her identity, influencing her approach to life and her unwavering sense of community.
Louise moved to Rockland County, New York, bringing with her the warmth and spirit of her homeland. In West Nyack, she not only built a life for herself but also became a cornerstone of the community, forging deep connections through her work, her family, and her friendships.
A Community Hub: Café Diem
Louise’s entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly through Café Diem, a coffee shop she created as a haven for locals. Under her leadership, Café Diem became much more than a place to enjoy a cup of coffee—it was a space where people gathered, shared stories, and felt seen.
Her personal touch was evident in every aspect of the café, from its cozy atmosphere to the warm greetings she extended to every customer. Louise’s dedication to fostering community was unmatched, and Café Diem reflected her belief in the power of connection. She also used the café as a platform to support local causes, hosting fundraisers and events that brought people together for the greater good.
“Louise didn’t just serve coffee; she served kindness,” a longtime patron shared. “She had a way of making everyone feel like they belonged.”
In 2022, Louise was diagnosed with synovial sarcoma, a rare cancer that challenged her physically and emotionally. Despite the obstacles, she faced her illness with immense courage and determination, refusing to let it define her life.
Throughout her treatments, Louise continued to prioritize her roles as a wife to Ruairi Duffy and a mother to their five children—Nicole, Emma, Jane, Shea, and Leo. Her family was her anchor, and she remained steadfast in creating moments of joy and love for them, even during the most difficult times. Becoming a grandmother to Amelia brought additional light into her life, and she embraced the role with the same enthusiasm and devotion she brought to everything she did.
Honoring Her Legacy
The news of Louise’s passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from friends, customers, and community members. From heartfelt social media posts to shared memories at Café Diem, the community has come together to celebrate the incredible person Louise was.
Her family has organized events to honor her life and legacy:
- Visiting Hours: Sunday, November 24, 2024, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Wyman-Fisher Funeral Home Inc.
- Mass of Christian Burial: Monday, November 25, 2024, at 10:00 AM at St. Aedan R.C. Church, followed by a burial at Rockland Cemetery.
In keeping with Louise’s vibrant spirit, her family has requested attendees to wear colorful attire, symbolizing the joy and brightness she brought to so many lives.
Louise’s impact extends far beyond her immediate circle. She was a model of strength, compassion, and generosity, touching the lives of everyone she encountered. Her legacy is one of resilience and love, a reminder to cherish family, embrace life’s challenges, and find joy in everyday moments.
As the community gathers to bid farewell, they do so with hearts full of gratitude for the time they shared with her. Louise Duffy will forever be remembered as a light in the lives of all who knew her.
Rest in peace, Louise Higgins Duffy. Your legacy lives on in the countless lives you inspired.
