The Biography of the Rev. David J. Duffy, O.S.A.

Father David Duffy was born on February 24, 1931, in Philadelphia, PA, the son of William J. Duffy and Genevieve Colvey. He was baptized March 22, 1931 in Most Blessed Sacrament Church, Philadelphia, PA. He attended St. Laurence Parish Elementary School, Upper Darby, PA. He began high school at West Catholic High School, Philadelphia, PA, (1944-1946), and completed the last two years of high school at Malvern Preparatory School, Malvern, PA (1946-1948). Upon graduation, he went to Augustinian Academy, Staten Island, NY, for a year of post-graduate studies before being received into the Order as a novice. After his novice year at Good Counsel Novitiate, New Hamburg, NY, he professed first vows September 10, 1950, and he studied at Villanova University, graduating in 1953 with an AB in Philosophy. He attended Augustinian College, Washington, DC, for his four years of theological studies (1953-1957). He professed solemn vows September 10, 1953, and he was ordained a priest on February 9, 1957 at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Washington, DC. His first assignment was to Villanova University as instructor of theology (1957-1958). He was then assigned to the newly-opened Monsignor Bonner High School, Drexel Hill, PA, where he served from 1958 to 1966 as a teacher of English and Religion, and from 1966 to 1971 as Principal. He then served as a Province Counselor from 1971 to 1973.

Fr. Dave then returned to the place where he said that he had first heard and responded to his Augustinian vocation, Malvern Preparatory School. It was at Malvern that he spent the rest of his life, (1973-2006), first as Headmaster (1973-1990), and then as President (1990-2006). During the 32 years of his dedicated ministry at the school, he is credited with helping resolve the school’s financial difficulties and with helping the school grow from an enrollment of 250 students to nearly 600 students. Under his leadership and with the help of a dedicated Board of Trustees, qualified faculty and active alumni the academic reputation of the school has grown to be one of the top college preparatory schools in the region. Fr. Dave oversaw the completion of new buildings, the beautification of the campus and its playing fields, and he has been actively involved in the school’s capital campaign to endow the future of the school. In appreciation, the school had already decided to honor him with The Rev. David J. Duffy, OSA Center for the Arts, which will be a tribute to him as alumnus, Headmaster, President and Augustinian. Fr. Dave has also been involved in the guidance of other academic institutions, serving on the Boards of Trustees for St. Thomas University, Villanova University, Merion Mercy Academy, Waldron Mercy Academy, and Saint Augustine’s Preparatory School.

It is estimated that over 2500 students have passed through Malvern during Fr. Dave’s tenure. He worked with faculty and staff to inculcate Augustinian ideals into the hearts and lives of these young men.

James H. Stewart, Head of School, said, “Father Duffy’s influence and love for the people of the Malvern Prep community is immeasurable. This School that exists today is directly a result of his vision and leadership. We are all grateful to him for that commitment, but more than anything we will all remember him for his friendship, his fellowship and his faithfulness. This is an extremely sad time for anyone who knew him. Father Duffy was a blessing to us all.”

The friars who have lived and worked with him speak of his warmth, gentleness and kindness, his zeal in priestly ministry, and his Augustinian spirit of fraternity. Fr. Dave has one deceased sister, Genevieve LeBarge of Dexter, Maine, and two surviving brothers, Bill Duffy of Pittsburgh, and Frank Duffy of Hilton Head, S.C., as well as 11 nieces and nephews and numerous grand-nieces and grand-nephews.

Stated Father Donald F. Reilly, Prior Provincial of the Province of Saint Thomas of Villanova: “This is a time of great sadness for both the Augustinian and Malvern communities. Father Duffy was beloved by those that knew him – and deservedly so. His gentleness, compassion, and extraordinary vision helped to mold Malvern as a truly Augustinian school. He was a builder of community, and that community is in mourning. The Augustinians grieve with the entire Malvern family during this difficult time.”

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Malvern Preparatory School for the benefit of the Augustinian Scholars Fund, 418 S. Warren Ave., Malvern, PA 19355.

Visitors to the Augustinian website can posted their own reflections of Fr. Duffy online at: http://www.augustinian.org/necrology/duffy_david.htm.