James J. Ducey

James J. Ducey (1935–2025) passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025 surrounded by his family in Crystal River, Florida. He was born on June 21, 1935 to Martin and Bridget (McGettigan) Ducey in Bronx, New York. He lived in New York and Florida; graduated Fordham University and worked as a Senior Revenue analyst for various New York Telephone companies. He was the first member of his family to graduate from college. While living in Bethpage, NY he volunteered for St. Vincent DePaul, and as a Little League Baseball coach and umpire.

In his retirement years he moved to Inverness, FL. During this time Jim enjoyed traveling with his wife Peggy and was an avid golfer as a member of Citrus Hills Golf and Country Club. He was a Eucharistic Minister for Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church and member of the Knight of Columbus, serving twice as the Grand Knight, 4 th Degree. Jim spent countless hours volunteering at the Elks Club, visiting veterans in nursing homes for over 10 years and belonged Irish Club, Ancient Order of Hibernians and to the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepluchre Church.

He leaves behind his wife of 64 years, Peggy Ducey (Lydon), five children; Peggy Downey (Alan), Joan Wetzler (Rich), James Ducey (Acelina), John Ducey (Marguerite), Kathy Perrone (Anthony) and by thirteen grandchildren, Katherine, Corinne, Megan, Samantha, Theresa, Michael, Kevin, Joseph, Niamh, Aidan, Moira, Beatrice, Liam and six great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Bridget Theresa Healy, brother Michael Ducey, sister-in-law Beatrice Mitchell, brother-in-law’s, Michael, Padraig, and Peter Lydon, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will take place on Sunday July 13, 2025 from 2:00pm to 6:00pm at Heinz Funeral Home, 2507 Highway 44W, Inverness, Florida. A celebration of Jim’s life will take place at a Funeral Mass, Monday, July 14, 2025 at 10 a.m. at St. Scholastica Church, 4301 W. Homosassa Trail, Lecanto, FL followed by burial at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, FL.