QE2 Story Forum

Introductions and Our own QE2 Stories => Passenger & Enthusiast Memories => Topic started by: Isabelle Prondzynski on Feb 08, 2009, 01:09 PM

Title: John Duffy
Post by: Isabelle Prondzynski on Feb 08, 2009, 01:09 PM
John Duffy has received the Seatrade Insider Award for “Seagoing Employee of the Year”.

We never knew him well, but he was (and no doubt is!) friendly and cheerful. We met him almost every day on our most recent voyage, when he passed the Computer Learning Centre in the evenings... we used to sit there, enjoying ourselves with our computers and benefiting from the wifi facilities!

http://seatravel.wordpress.com/2009/02/04/cunards-john-duffy-receives-seatrade-insider-award-for-seagoing-employee-of-the-year/
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: hollihedge on Feb 08, 2009, 01:11 PM
Thanks for posting Isabelle - very interesting, and glad he has gained deserved recognition
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Chris on Feb 09, 2009, 12:41 AM
we used to sit there, enjoying ourselves with our computers and benefiting from the wifi facilities!


I preferred sitting in the Yacht Club with a drink when using WiFi :)
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Rob Lightbody on Feb 09, 2009, 06:07 PM
I preferred sitting in the Yacht Club with a drink when using WiFi :)

Me too!  Had a great signal while sitting at the starboard side in one of those lovely big windows looking out at the sea - never, ever had a happier surfing experience!!
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Isabelle Prondzynski on Mar 16, 2009, 02:26 PM
Here's a rather longer article about John Duffy, which I enjoyed :

http://wearecunard.com/2009/03/john-duffy-receives-the-seagoing-employee-of-the-year-2008/

I really like the replies he gives to the interviewer. Here is one :

Quote
You have had an incredible career at sea. What do you think kept you at sea all these years?

Having attained the position of Hotel Manager QE2, in l98l, which of course was the most prestigious liner in the world, where else would I go to better myself?  I was of course, over the years, offered innumerable prestigious positions elsewhere, but my loyalties remained with QE2 and Cunard Line.

Now a man who thinks like that, must be all right!

Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Chris on Mar 23, 2009, 01:21 AM
I preferred sitting in the Yacht Club with a drink when using WiFi :)

Me too!  Had a great signal while sitting at the starboard side in one of those lovely big windows looking out at the sea - never, ever had a happier surfing experience!!

My sentiments exactly ... it was wonderful to sit there and watch the Ocean go by while writing to friends from the Magnificent QE2!
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: cunardqueen on Mar 23, 2009, 06:30 PM
I had the great pleasure to be at his table in 1988 and again 19 years later in 2007.
It was l must admit a pleasure to be on such a table and to compare tales of that voyage
Now if only he could be persuaded to put his diary to print...   
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Andy F on Mar 23, 2009, 09:58 PM
Agree Myles and whenever you think of QE2, John invariably comes to mind as one of the great characters.  It would certainly be interesting to read his stories and I bet he has a fair few to tell but IF he should ever be persuaded to go into print, it would no doubt have to wait until retirement.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: KEV on Apr 23, 2009, 09:42 PM
Sounds like a Top Guy
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Malcolm on Apr 23, 2009, 10:38 PM
I preferred sitting in the Yacht Club with a drink when using WiFi :)

I found it depended on where your cabin was. When we were amidships on Deck One the Pavilion was great, forward on Deck Two put us close to the Computer Centre (we were so close you could sometimes pick up the WIFI signal in the cabin) and when we were towards the stern of Deck Three we used the Yacht Club.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Glengavin on Apr 24, 2009, 12:35 AM
Sounds like a Top Guy
Yes, he is a top guy, a real gentleman.  Always had time for a cheery word of welcome. John was onboard when we made our first voyage in '94 and he was last crew member we saw on the pier after disembarking in Dubai.  He must have had all sorts of emotions running through him but he still came over, shook my hand and gave my wife a hug.   Sort of seemed right that he should be the last.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Isabelle Prondzynski on Aug 13, 2009, 06:50 PM
Great interview with John Duffy here :

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/7723300.stm

"Well, you can't get better than the best, and when you're hotel manager of the QE2, there's nowhere else to go that compares..."

He must have spent more years on board QE2 than most... lucky man...
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Twynkle on Aug 13, 2009, 07:24 PM
Isabelle,

Thank You for posting this.  He IS one of the best!  His knowledge and experience of his work couldn't ever be matched.

Rosie
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Louis De Sousa on Sep 12, 2009, 10:09 AM

He was a very good man to talk with, i used to love doing the Cocktails Parties in his Quarters.

Louis
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Kindlychap on Sep 28, 2009, 06:34 AM
I preferred sitting in the Yacht Club with a drink when using WiFi :)

I found it depended on where your cabin was. When we were amidships on Deck One the Pavilion was great, forward on Deck Two put us close to the Computer Centre (we were so close you could sometimes pick up the WIFI signal in the cabin) and when we were towards the stern of Deck Three we used the Yacht Club.

And in 8183 there was a superb signal - I think wifi had been installed for the cabin above - or was it the four stripe officer forward?

Matthew
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Kindlychap on Sep 28, 2009, 06:38 AM
I had the great pleasure to be at his table in 1988 and again 19 years later in 2007.
It was l must admit a pleasure to be on such a table and to compare tales of that voyage
Now if only he could be persuaded to put his diary to print...   

I was at his table on QM2 this last May. My first time aboard since QE2. He was a great host, and we talked of QE2 and the QE2 ways. The number of QE2 crew on board QM2 has matured the ship, and is, I think, Mary's best hope of following in the impossible wake to follow set down by QE2.

But what would I have given to have been back where I was in October last year, on the tandems, in 1059.....

Matthew
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Twynkle on Oct 24, 2009, 03:47 PM
John Duffy - simply the best!
http://www.bbc.co.uk/timewatch/qe2.shtml
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: highlander0108 on Oct 24, 2009, 07:38 PM
You tempt us with yet another video we "canna" access this side of the pond.  :(  I think it is time I look into those ghosting programs to work around this.

Ken
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Twynkle on Oct 24, 2009, 08:43 PM
Hello Ken,
That's not good - I am sorry.
I've tried to extract the clip, but to no avail.
There's a 'BBC iplayer outside the uk' page(s) on google
but not too sure about the legitimacy of methods recommended!
Rosie
 
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: jdl on Oct 24, 2009, 08:47 PM
where is John now then, is he on QM2 or has he retired?

jdl
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Andy F on Nov 23, 2009, 01:30 AM
where is John now then, is he on QM2 or has he retired?
He's on QM2
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Twynkle on Jan 25, 2010, 06:17 PM

John E. Duffy
Hotel Manager, Queen Mary 2
by Joseph Schmitt 
The longest-serving, four-stripe officer aboard any of Cunard’s “Queen” ships, John Duffy, Hotel Manager of Queen Mary 2, is a wealth of information about these splendid sea-going vessels. His experience, passion, and knowledge are vital assets for both the cruise line and its passengers. From the moment you meet Duffy you realize you are in the presence of a man who loves what he does and the ships he calls home. It’s no wonder that Duffy was recently awarded the Merchant Navy Medal for distinguished service, and in 2008 was voted “Seagoing Employee of the Year” at the Seatrade Conference in Venice........

http://www.passportmagazine.com/departments/JohnDuffy769.php?rand=1
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Twynkle on Jun 30, 2010, 07:05 PM
An Interview with John Duffy
by Richard Wagner.
http://www.beyondships.com/QM2-art-Duffy.html
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Twynkle on Oct 16, 2011, 09:39 PM
Mr Duffy is currently on board QM2 and in good form!
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Rod on Oct 29, 2011, 07:53 PM
The think with John, because he came up through the ranks, I believe he started as a cabin boy, he never forgot his roots. He respected all. Worked with him on many occasions as Hotel Service Engineer...had a few battles too, but always respected him and liked him!
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: cunardqueen on Oct 29, 2011, 08:03 PM
Has he not just completed his last crossing on QM2 and then retires after the World Cruise.
From a passenger point of view, l managed to dine on his table twice with him as host in 20 years, a throughly decent kind generous and highly entertaining host.
Now if he could only be persuaded to write a book, or even put his diarys into print.....
I remember his tale of interviewing people in Scotland for QE2 just prior to the start of her re entry into service in 1987, and involving a mutual friend.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Peter Mugridge on Oct 29, 2011, 10:38 PM
We need to persuade him to join the forum... :)
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Twynkle on Oct 29, 2011, 11:21 PM
Mr Duffy does know about the Forum.
He told me a couple of weeks ago that he's not able to join - he's an extremely busy man.

Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Peter Mugridge on Oct 30, 2011, 12:55 PM
Ah, but after his imminent ( well, OK, 6 months away ) retirement indicated above...?  Maybe??

He must have a lot of stories he could tell us.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Twynkle on Dec 06, 2011, 06:15 PM
An interview with Mr Duffy - 2010
http://www.passportmagazine.com/departments/JohnDuffy769.php?pagenum=1
'America's # 1 Gay travel magazine'
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Pat Curry on Dec 07, 2011, 09:58 AM
Thanks for the news that John Duffy is retiring after his trojan lifetime of Cunard service.  That he has chosen to go after the QM2's World Cruise is apt.  I am certain he will miss his job.  And let's all hope he does turn to this forum to keep the memory alive.  

He makes running a very complicated 'hotel' look easy, whether his beloved QE2 and now QM2. He remembers everyone's names, crew and pax and greets you as an old friend

On World Cruises Heads of Departments hold cocktail parties for guests of their choice.  Invites are cherished.  Because of my onboard 'celebrity' on QE2, I was lucky enough to get such invitations from Captains (in Captain's cabin), Medics on 2 deck, Chief Engineers, Wardie, and Mr Duffy's.
 
His was the best. It was uniquely held in the Yacht Club and the food was sumptous.  The huge prawns on ice were particularly outstanding.

QE2, Yacht Club, John Duffy ... what a combination ... What memories.  

Happy retirement, John, and please share them with us.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Twynkle on May 24, 2012, 02:21 PM
From Cunard.
"After 46 years with Cunard, Queen Mary 2's Hotel Manager John Duffy is retiring today. The ship's whistle will sound at 11.30am across Southampton as he leaves the vessel. We would like to wish John a very happy retirement!"

All the best to you, Mr Duffy - you have earned the best possible good health, as well as good times in retirement.
Thank You for your huge contribution in making QE2 such a magnificent ship for her guests!

Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Stowaway2k on May 24, 2012, 02:39 PM
I am very envious of his career.   The experiences he has had, the people he has met, the places he has been,  what he must have seen...   ;)

I do hope there is a memoir in his future.   What a joy it would be to read... and to be envious...
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: cunardqueen on May 24, 2012, 06:52 PM
He shared with me that fact hes kept a diary all these years....
From a passengers point of view he was always a superb host..
Best Wishes in his retirement.
It would be interesting to hear what his thoughts were of the fleet since QE2 was sold.. 
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Twynkle on Jun 01, 2012, 08:40 AM
Farewell from Cunard to Mr Duffy

http://wearecunard.com/2012/05/thank-you-john-duffy/
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: bobso on Jun 01, 2012, 03:36 PM
Thanks Rosie for the lovely piece regarding John Duffy's retirement. What a great tribute from Cunard to a much loved man.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: philhar on Jun 18, 2012, 09:01 AM
I think numerous people will remember John for his warmth and humour but especially someone who was absolutely dedicated to providing passengers with the best possible service.He also had an incredible memory and would remember people even if they cruised years apart and their likes/dislikes.He also expected nothing less from his staff too and his entusiasm appeared to be infectious.
I remember him helping my Father request an off menu item and when finding out it wasn't as good as the same dish on Holland America (my father would always give blunt, honest feedback) John ensured it was done again to perfection.
No one is irrepacable but John definitely came as close as is possible.
I wish John a long happy and healthy retirement.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Isabelle Prondzynski on Jun 18, 2012, 09:36 PM
What a great memory, philhar!

No doubt just one among many thousands, but each individual memory important in its own right, and each contributing to the great affection and respect in which John Duffy was held.

When was this, philhar? And did you meet him again after that?
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Isabelle Prondzynski on Feb 09, 2014, 09:20 PM
With thanks to CunardQueens, who drew attention to it in their Facebook page, a wonderful interview with John Duffy, showing just what a gentleman he is :

Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Twynkle on May 06, 2015, 10:17 PM
Did you know that the blue cushion covers on the deck chairs on Deck 7 (RMS Queen Mary 2) are the exact same blue as Everton Football Club's home kit?
The fabric was deliberately chosen by Mr Duffy!
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: GJ on Jun 28, 2016, 07:30 PM
Everton season ticket holder  ;)
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Boris on Jun 29, 2016, 05:58 AM
Everton season ticket holder  ;)

Sad, but never mind, so long as he's healthy.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: GJ on Jul 22, 2016, 11:40 PM
 :D ;)
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Twynkle on Jul 23, 2016, 12:05 AM
And - Although starb'd side of Deck 7 on board QM2 now has deck-chairs covered with that sort of 'neutral beige',
the Everton Blue were still holding on on port side!
(Why they couldn't these be Red - That 'Beige' is Naff!!)
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: GJ on Jul 25, 2016, 10:44 PM
  ;)
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Twynkle on Jul 26, 2016, 08:52 AM
Mr D  has  had a bit of bad health and is recovering at the moment any one wishing to wish him well do so and ill show him this  thred  ;)

Thank you for this, GJ.

Very much hoping that Mr D will be feeling much better soon - Please give him lots of Best Wishes and So Many Thanks too!
QE2 would never have been the same without Mr D - You did her proud!

Take Care Mr D - You looked after us so well, wishing in some ways that we could do the same for you - except we wouldn't do it as well as you did for us!
Kind regards
Rosie

(PS - Mr D - when you are feeling better, you will very possibly find the longest piece of Granite-on-a-Pavement behind the Cunard building 'interesting'! It was unveiled for the Centenary Anniversary of the Cunard Building)
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: June Ingram on Jul 26, 2016, 01:55 PM
All good wishes to Mr D and hope you will be feeling much better soon. 
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: cunardqueen on Jul 26, 2016, 08:47 PM
Wishing you a speedy recovery..
Now about that book... ;)

Myles
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Alan Snelson on Jul 27, 2016, 11:36 AM
Hope you are feeling better soon John. Best wishes  :)
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Isabelle Prondzynski on Jul 27, 2016, 12:47 PM
All good wishes to you, John, and many happy and lasting memories of your cheerful face greeting us every evening on QE2 as you passed by us sitting outside the Computer Centre using the wifi!

Get well soon and keep enjoying life on land as much as you used to enjoy life at sea :) .
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Willum on Jul 27, 2016, 01:09 PM
And best wishes for Yer Health! from me, Tech R/O and wife Sarah Deere-Jones (Harp) N.Cornwall.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: GJ on Jul 27, 2016, 01:43 PM
I will pass these on later called in to see him this morning. Ended up drinking coffee and eating cakes  he was in good form   And recovering daily  hope I don't get shouted at by his first officer (wife)  for putting this on here  G
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Boris on Jul 27, 2016, 10:44 PM
hope I don't get shouted at by his first officer (wife)  for putting this on here  G
Marie is far too ladylike to shout.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: GJ on Jul 28, 2016, 12:47 PM
Just left mr D   He read this thred  with interest  "CABIN BOY ".  :) junior purser he replied ,   Marie was amused  he is in good form and enjoying life  ;)   
Title: John Duffy
Post by: Michael Gallagher on Jul 11, 2017, 12:01 PM
I am very sad to let you know that John Duffy - QE2's legendary Hotel Manager and longest serving four-stripe officer in Cunard history - passed away this morning, Tuesday 11 July 2017.

It is strange that he passed away just as Queen Elizabeth was arriving on the Mersey in his home City!

A great man and a Cunard legend.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Lynda Bradford on Jul 11, 2017, 12:21 PM
Very sad news that John Duffy has died. He was always very pleasant when I had the opportunity to speak to him and always interested in QE2 stories.  A QE2 legend has passed on - my heartfelt sympathy goes to his family. 

Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Isabelle Prondzynski on Jul 11, 2017, 12:32 PM
Thank you very much, Michael, for letting us know. The QE2 network lives on...

Very sad to hear that John Duffy died so soon into his retirement -- I would have wished him many happy years of happy memories and new adventures.

He was a wonderful gentleman. We have great memories of sitting outside the Computer Learning Centre in our evening clothes, writing on our laptops (and using the Computer Centre's wifi). John passed by almost every evening at that time, and always greeted us with a pleasant personal word.

I believe he had Irish roots, and this may have contributed to his remembering us -- but then, I also believe that he had a friendly word for almost everyone!

Michael, if you are in touch with his family, please pass our condolences to them.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Twynkle on Jul 11, 2017, 01:48 PM
Thank you for letting us know, Michael.
We have some wonderful memories of him, he was such a good, kind gentle-man.
As long as the ships have blue seats on the deck-chairs,
people may discover why they are specifically 'that' blue.
They were Mr Duffy's choice - the blue of Everton FC.


[For people who knew John and his family personally
Janice Jeffrey has been in close touch with John and his family - and posted the following on a page on Facebook.
"Our hearts and prayers go out to Marie and Johnny at this time for their very sad loss. As some of you may know John had been struggling with very ill health for the last 7 months and now he is at peace.
As soon as I hear information on funeral arrangements I will let you know....]
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: cunardqueen on Jul 11, 2017, 03:01 PM
A very sad day in the history of QE2. Rest in Peace Mr John Duffy. The legendary Hotel Manager onboard QE2. The names QE2 & John Duffy went hand in hand. It was a tremendous honour and pleasure to be invited to dine at your table and to have sat at the same table with the same host exactly 19 years apart . You are as much a part of Cunard history as the ship you were Hotel Manager on. The memories we passengers have of you will be forever in our minds . There is only one QE2...there will only ever be one Hotel Manager. At Rest..At Peace .

On my cruise in 2007 l mentioned as l was seated next to Mr Duffy that it was by a quirk of fate exactly 19 years to the night we were in the same position, l had been invited to the Hotel Managers Table. He told me he would check up as he kept a diary, and he did ! he also told me of one of the best things ever to come out of the 86/87 refit .  Anyone who had the great fortune to dine with Mr John Duffy  was in for a superlative experience. and a level of service like no other.   
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Michael Gallagher on Jul 11, 2017, 03:29 PM
After suggesting it, Queen Elizabeth will sound her whistle for 47 seconds at 2155 hours tonight - just before she leaves Liverpool. 47 seconds for 47 years of Cunard service by a true Cunarder.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Andy Holloway on Jul 11, 2017, 04:06 PM
After suggesting it, Queen Elizabeth will sound her whistle for 47 seconds at 2155 hours tonight - just before she leaves Liverpool. 47 seconds for 47 years of Cunard service by a true Cunarder.

Well organised Michael, i hope they pay a tribute to John in tomorrow's daily programme on QE as well.


Andy
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Lynda Bradford on Jul 11, 2017, 04:09 PM
After suggesting it, Queen Elizabeth will sound her whistle for 47 seconds at 2155 hours tonight - just before she leaves Liverpool. 47 seconds for 47 years of Cunard service by a true Cunarder.

A tribute that signifies John's career with Cunard, which is so appropriate.  Thanks for suggesting this Michael, your experience in these matters is second to none. 
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: cunardqueen on Jul 11, 2017, 04:26 PM
Quote
Well organised Michael, i hope they pay a tribute to John in tomorrow's daily programme on QE as well.   

Wouldnt it be just so nice if QE2 gave a quiet toot at the same time...

Maybe its me, but the Cunard facebook page seems to be lacking in any notice of this sad event..
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Andy Holloway on Jul 11, 2017, 04:31 PM
Just out of interest Michael, who is Captain of QE at present, Inger or Asheem?
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Michael Gallagher on Jul 11, 2017, 04:32 PM
I agree Myles. The social media team was alerted to this over four hours ago!
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Michael Gallagher on Jul 11, 2017, 04:33 PM
Inger.

Aseem rejoins this Friday.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Andy Holloway on Jul 11, 2017, 04:44 PM
Inger.

Aseem rejoins this Friday.

Thank you Michael.

If you see them please pass on my regards, two 'Cracking people'.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: cunardqueen on Jul 11, 2017, 05:51 PM
Quote
I agree Myles. The social media team was alerted to this over four hours ago!
   
As an ex very disgruntled passenger of QE2. l do wish they would get with it, buck up their ideas .I have just now made my own personal views known to them via their message format on Facebook.

If some of you find this perhaps a step to far, then that is entirely your own view. l make no apologies . Today Cunard lost someone very special and the very least the dum ****s can do is acknowledge it .



Quote
  It saddens not only myself but a great many other QE2  die hard fans that as yet there is still no mention of the passing of one of Cunards greatest and long serving officers Mr John Duffy who passed away early this morning. I can only guess that todays facebook officer has no idea who Mr Duffy was . He was one of Cunards longest serving four strip officer in the history of Cunard . He served as a much loved and widely respected Hotel Manager onboard for what is still regarded as The flagship Queen Elizabeth 2 .   There is still perhaps some time to save some face, if Cunard is interested and make it public information on here of your small but fitting tribute  tonight at 2155. It might be fitting to fly the flags at half mast and post a photo again as a tribute to one of Cunard QE2s finest officers. Tomorrow lm afraid is to late.     
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Rob Lightbody on Jul 11, 2017, 06:23 PM
I never met John, but I've heard lots about him.

I visited his office when I was on QE2 in Dubai, and somehow it felt wrong me being there without him (the office was untouched).

He visited QE2 a year after me, and I presume is the last Cunard officer to have been aboard QE2 - https://www.theqe2story.com/forum/index.php/topic,4279.0.html

I attach a rights-free Getty Images image of his wife and a photo of him.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: June Ingram on Jul 11, 2017, 06:50 PM
It is very sad news indeed to hear of John Duffy's passing.  Sincere sympathy to his family and thoughts to all those whose lives he touched.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Alan Snelson on Jul 11, 2017, 07:07 PM
So very sad to hear of John Duffy's passing. A true gentleman and the kindest person I think I have ever encountered.

I was on board when John took over from John Sawyer, another legendary hotel manager. It was always easy to deal with John and he would always go the extra mile to sort anything out.

Condolences to John's family and friends.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Twynkle on Jul 11, 2017, 07:09 PM
Posted in We are Cunard 2012
http://wearecunard.com/2012/05/thank-you-john-duffy/


Hopefully, if it's appropriate, sometime in the future there could be a Thanksgiving Service in Liverpool for Mr Duffy.
As he used to say of QE2, he too was Simply the Best.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Boris on Jul 11, 2017, 09:08 PM
Txt from John Duffy Jnr:

As the Queen Elizabeth leaves Liverpool tonight her horn will be sounded 47 times in honour of the 47 years my father worked for Cunard. Flags on Cunard ships will be at half mast tomorrow my friends xx
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: GJ on Jul 11, 2017, 10:10 PM
   Iam currently out of liverpool if there was one night id like to be stood on the pier head it would be tonite    RIP JOHN ,   WHITE STAR SERVICE  was your by word   I got to know what it meant , your stories captivated and amused me  it was an honor to have known you  Graham / lynda 
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Rob Lightbody on Jul 12, 2017, 05:04 AM
Cunard mourns John Duffy, longest serving four-stripe officer

http://www.seatrade-cruise.com/news/news-headlines/cunard-mourns-john-duffy-longest-serving-four-stripe-officer.html
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: QE2forever on Jul 12, 2017, 07:01 AM
I am very sad to hear of John Duffy's passing.

He wrote one chapter in my first book "A Tribute To QE2" and I've always felt extremely grateful to him. He was a very kind man and the text he wrote was... simply the best.

Nice to hear QE will sound her horn today in honor of John's years with Cunard.

My heartfelt condolences go to his family.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Rod on Jul 12, 2017, 12:42 PM
One of my most vivid memories of John Duffy was of him, stbd side fwd,round about 1011 for about 10 cabins down. uniform trousers rolled up to his knees wading through ankle deep water as we dealt with a flood.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: ship pro on Jul 12, 2017, 01:10 PM
A photo of John, out of uniform, when he was doing the General Manager role, at the front of his favourite ship, with all the officers and crew October 1986 in San Juan. Happy days.

It was nice that QE did that recognition in Liverpool.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Louis De Sousa on Jul 12, 2017, 05:13 PM
Here is John onboard QE2 for the last time in 2012
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: cunardqueen on Jul 12, 2017, 07:00 PM

Quote
  As an ex very disgruntled passenger of QE2. l do wish they would get with it, buck up their ideas .I have just now made my own personal views known to them via their message format on Facebook.   

Ok maybe its me, and tell me to shut up..But last night l wrote the message to The Cunard Facebook page...up pops the little messge box telling you their online so l type away...then this morning at 11.45am a reply as below

Quote
Thank you for your message and please rest assured that the loss of Mr Duffy is very much at the forefront of our minds at the moment. Our Chief Executive has sent an internal memorial message to staff at Carnival House, where the flags have indeed been lowered to half mast.

Now forgive me but l do use FB quite a lot, l really thought and imagined that as a mark of respect Cunard would have made a mention about such an iconic character..Well it  seems No they havent instead they post some drivel about Queen whatever and the Winter Garden... No mention of the Blowing of whistles last night as a mark of respect.  some other posters on other social media sites speak of the Haunting experience of the sound last night.  Would it have been so much effort for Cunard to have posted something ?
What i do find quite sad is one poster on a social media site asked the Question.... Who is John Duffy....
Is this the Cunard passenger of today.....

Tell me lm not alone in my way of thinking   :'(
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: June Ingram on Jul 12, 2017, 08:17 PM
Myles, you are not alone !
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Michael Gallagher on Jul 12, 2017, 10:59 PM
The response from current management has been appalling and disrespectful. It is a company John Duffy would not recognise and does not offer something Mr Duffy valued more than anything: SERVICE.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Andy Holloway on Jul 13, 2017, 09:00 AM
The response from current management has been appalling and disrespectful. It is a company John Duffy would not recognise and does not offer something Mr Duffy valued more than anything: SERVICE.

The sad part is Michael that, as both you and i know to our cost, there has been a lot of  'anti Cunard' feeling within CUK, and particularly the P&O side, for years.

Also there are very few, if any, 'true blue' Cunarders left within CUK any more, and if they could get rid on the likes of Chris Wells, Inger, Asheem 'quietly' they would at the drop of a hat, then swiftly replace them with CUK 'Yes Men'.

It's taken me some years to 'get over' my incident with CUK, not that you truly ever do, and involved moving to another company. Seabourn, where a lot of ex Cunarders had also gone before me for similar reasons.

I'm afraid this latest incident is just symptomatic of CUK in 2017, and we who have worked for 'CUNARD' in the past and remember what that name REALLY meant, unfortunately have no power to change things. In my case, i have some brilliant memories of my almost 20 years 'before the mast' with Cunard, and those memories CUK has no power or way of taking away from me.
That is why i enjoy QE2 Story so much, instead of dwelling on the bad times, and there were some, i choose recall and remember the good times, with the truly, fantastic, interesting people i've met over the years.

Anyway back to 'Mr Duffy' and recalling what a 'legend' he was.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Boris on Jul 13, 2017, 03:18 PM
On The Great Queens: A Conversation with John Duffy (http://www.beyondships.com/QM2-art-Duffy.html)
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Rod on Jul 13, 2017, 04:02 PM
With all due respect to the Americans on this forum, Cunard has not been Cunard since the management moved to the US.
It is now no longer a luxury shipping company but purely a business.
This started well before the re-engining.
Some people loved the change, others not so much!
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Twynkle on Jul 13, 2017, 11:33 PM
'Hotman' at the helm
There is something good to read here.
https://www.thecaterer.com/articles/42554/hotman-at-the-helm
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Lynda Bradford on Jul 14, 2017, 09:18 AM
Excellent find Rosie - really good article
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Malcolm on Jul 14, 2017, 05:30 PM
Myles, you are not alone !

Ditto :(
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Malcolm on Jul 14, 2017, 06:07 PM
Who is John Duffy....

He came from a time when anyone who had a major role with Cunard had to be a big character. A lot of people probably still remember Maureen Ryan but Anne Bright? Jimmy Murray? :(
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Michael Gallagher on Jul 14, 2017, 06:22 PM
Both Anne and Jimmy were great individuals, great brand ambassadors and two very nice people
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Boris on Jul 14, 2017, 06:26 PM
With all due respect to the Americans on this forum, Cunard has not been Cunard since the management moved to the US. It is now no longer a luxury shipping company but purely a business.

Well, to be fair to the Americans, I would say that Cunard has not been 'Cunard' since their shipping and resort business was taken over in 1971 by Trafalgar House Investments: the engineering, construction, property development conglomerate. And although THI was a British company, it was certainly not Cunard in its management style, ethos or culture.

There would be many that would say if you didn't sail on the QE2 prior to 1971, you weren't truly a Cunarder; no matter it may have been operating under that brand name when you sailed.

But I would agree that things have slipped further since the take over by Carnivore.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: cunardqueen on Jul 14, 2017, 09:42 PM
Quote
Anne Bright? 

She had the World club named after her, in the early days about she only had a couple of thousand members,, and a fee of i think £20 a year,  the World club tie,l only ever spotted someone else with one ! bag tags a regular newsy letter and group sailings. The present World club, is l think a bit of a joke, Im a Diamond member and (oh here we go again) the Famous year book they have yet to send out (had it not been for a friend l would never have had any copies) try and get through to them and reservations intercept your call (a paid call l hasten to add) and the Newsletter, well its more a sales promotion, it seems to be reduced to being sent out once a year. Ok l havent sailed since 2008 but that really isnt the point !! Her letters during the refit in 86/87 were a source of much news and interest, and she ran a competition to rename the Double Room to its present name.

Anne Bright ran her club like a family,when you booked a cruise you called the club number, she knew who you were, you chatted, you booked and you felt appreciated . l remember one cruise l was travelling down with  another member in a Stretch Merc, we collected Anne, luggage in the boot and off we set from London to the Polygon. packed sandwiches and a bottle of fiz, for the club lunch, we were arriving early, too early for Annes liking and the order went out, round again driver. As an impressionable teenager,l was in the company of Royality !She gave out onboard credit and you were delighted with whatever she gave you and the world club gifts.Back then you felt appreciated and that was 1988 but times change. Cunards changed  >:(

Given how much Anne was admired and respected by her fans, it was ironic how she passed away.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: GJ on Jul 17, 2017, 01:19 AM
 Having spoken to  marie  ( mrs duffy ) it is her  wish that any one thinking of  sending condolences  or flowers could you please   Make a donation to THE ROYAL  SOCIETY FOR GUIDE DOGS FOR THE BLIND.    ,   JOHN JNR AND MARIE THANK EVERY ONE FOR THEIR KINDNESS    . 
Title: A message from John Duffy's wife and son
Post by: Michael Gallagher on Jul 17, 2017, 09:45 AM
A message from John Duffy's wife and son:

John Duffy

Marie and Johnny Duffy would like to thank all of those Cunard passengers and crew members (both current and former) who have sent messages of love and support to them at this difficult time.
They have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of affection expressed for John, which has helped them deal with their grief as a result of his untimely passing.

Marie and Johnny hope that all will respect and appreciate their wish to hold a private family funeral for John.

It is the family's intention to arrange a memorial service to celebrate John's life at a later date.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Chris on Jul 26, 2017, 12:46 AM
Thank you for passing on the message Michael.
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: GJ on Jul 27, 2017, 08:11 PM
I was  privileged to attend johns sevice today     Conducted by the QE2 chaplin  farther dave  john would have been proud     I wont  go in to any details as it was a private  afair except to say.  WHITE STAR / CUNARD SERVICE  TO THE END  RIP  JOHN E DUFFY 
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Isabelle Prondzynski on Aug 01, 2017, 03:07 PM
John Duffy's portrait can be found among David Smith's drawings :

Number 12 John Duffy!

John Duffy's portrait here. (https://www.theqe2story.com/forum/gallery/displayimage.php?pid=5985&message_id=0499038fe301df0aa7bdf469c5b50b7a&message_icon=info#cpgMessageBlock)

(https://www.theqe2story.com/forum/gallery/albums/userpics/10003/IMG_0728.JPG)

It would be lovely if we could get this to his family :) . Ideas welcome!
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Andy Holloway on Oct 30, 2017, 09:31 AM
Is there any news on a Memorial Service for John yet?  Or have i missed it!
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Thomas Hypher on Nov 26, 2017, 05:49 PM
A photo of John, out of uniform, when he was doing the General Manager role, at the front of his favourite ship, with all the officers and crew October 1986 in San Juan. Happy days.

It was nice that QE did that recognition in Liverpool.

Weeks before her re-engining!
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: kevinh on Jan 18, 2018, 07:25 PM
I may not have known John Duffy, but I know well enough that death is a sad thing. I am so sorry to hear about his passing. :'( At least he now has a wonderful place and life in Heaven; THAT we can't be sad about. :)

R.I.P. Sir
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Willum on Jan 19, 2018, 11:25 PM
Great man, only one fault, he supported Everton. Nobody's perfect. ;-)
Title: Re: John Duffy
Post by: Twynkle on Jan 21, 2018, 06:56 PM
Great man, only one fault, he supported Everton. Nobody's perfect. ;-)

Hello Willum
The cushions on the deck chairs of QE2 were dark green, if memory serves correctly.
Have you been on board QM2?  The cushions there are...Everton Blue, no less!

Mr Duffy left a great legacy, not just in terms of upholstery either - the superb standard of hotel service on board all three Cunarders is something he carried over from QE2 to QM2, as well as via Jaquie Hodgson to QV and later to QE.