Jeffrey Patrick 'Duffy' Little

Jeffrey Patrick Little, 65, passed away on April 3, 2017. He was the sixth of Joseph Arthur and Mary Alice Little’s seven children, born on August 27, 1951, in Columbus, Ohio. Jeffrey acquired the nickname, “Duffy,” from his older brother Johnny’s attempt to pronounce his name, and it stuck throughout his lifetime with childhood friends and family. He grew up on Columbus’ near Eastside, where he attended Catholic schools, completing six years at St. Dominic, and graduating from Bishop Hartley High School in 1969. He also studied at The Ohio State University. Duffy had his first daughter, April, in March of 1972. He followed in the tracks of his grandfather, father and older brothers by becoming a mail carrier with the U.S. Postal Service. While still in his 20s, Duffy’s adventurous spirit prompted him to join his older brother, Jimi, in Los Angeles, where he continued his career as a postman. Several years later, he returned to Columbus, married Gwendolyn Brown and had his second daughter, Dana. In the late 80’s, Duffy transferred back to Los Angeles, where he lived for a few years. He returned to Columbus in the 90’s, and since 2011, Duffy has been happily married to loving and devoted wife, Monica, expanding his family to include her children, Vanya, Thomas and Brandy, and grandchild, Zoe. He retired from the U.S. Postal Service in 2011, and soon after, began working at Meals on Wheels. He was employed with them until his illness. Duffy developed a love of fishing at a young, always accompanied by his father, and brothers, Johnny and Martin. He was an avid reader, and was very knowledgeable about politics and world events. Debating political views with family and friends was both stimulating and enjoyable. Throughout his lifetime, one of his special destinations was Fox Lake, where he could relax, fish, swim and reminisce about childhood memories. Jeff and Monica shared a love for cooking shows and trying out new recipes, many of which he shared with his mother when he brought dinner every Sunday. Jeff and Monica also traveled extensively during the last few years, visiting friends and family, and island destinations, like Jamaica. Duffy became a grandfather a few years ago, and he relished time spent with Gabriel and Gisele. He developed good friendships over the years, many of which were with his co-workers from the Post Office. He was greatly loved for his kind and loyal spirit, and will be missed by all. Jeffrey is preceded in death by his father, Joseph Arthur Little, brothers Joseph Edward Little and Martin Christopher Little. He is survived by his wife, Monica (Hairston) Little; daughters, April Little and Dana Little (Inielsis Guillot); mother, Mary Alice Little; brothers, Jimi Little, Robert (Blanche) Little, and John Little; sister Linda Waddell; sister-in-law, Bonnie Little; grandchildren Gabriel and Gisele; step-children Vanya, Thomas and Brandy Hairston; step-grandchild Zoe; many nieces, nephews and Lee family cousins.