Fall River woman killed in Gabriel House fire remembered as devoted, compassionate caregiver with faith, resilience

A Fall River woman who died in the Gabriel House fire in Fall River is being remembered as services have been announced.

69-year-old Margaret “Peggy” Duddy passed away on Sunday.

According to an obituary, “Peggy worked in administrative assistant roles for the Fall River Catholic Diocese, The American Auto Auction (Manheim), MetLife, and ACA. For many years, Peggy was an active member and volunteer at St. Thomas More Church and the Dighton Lion’s Club.”

“A devoted caregiver, in every sense of the word, Peggy lived her life in service to others. Her compassion knew no bounds – whether she was tending to those in need, comforting a grieving heart, or offering a warm meal and even warmer embrace. Peggy faced life’s greatest sorrows with quiet strength, having endured the unimaginable loss of two children. Through her faith and resilience, she demonstrated kindness and empathy to humans and animals alike.”

The Dighton Police Officer Union issued the following statement:

“It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic news that the recent fire at the Gabriel House in Fall River has personally affected one of our own. Retired Patrolman James Duddy’s mother, Margaret Duddy, was one of the victims of this heartbreaking incident.

“We extend our deepest condolences to Jimmy and his family during this incredibly difficult time. Ms. Duddy was a cherished member of the Dighton community for many years before relocating, and her loss is felt deeply by all who knew her.

“Please keep the Duddy family and all the families affected in your thoughts prayers as they navigate their unimaginable losses.”

Peggy’s Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, from 9:00 to 10:30 AM at the Waring-Sullivan Home at Rose E. Sullivan, 866 County St., Somerset, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM in St. Patrick’s Church, 306 South St., Somerset. Burial will take place in Notre Dame Cemetery, Fall River. Relatives and friends are invited to attend.

Contributions in Peggy’s honor may be made to the Lupus Foundation of America, 2121 K Street NW, Suite 200, Washington, DC 20037, www.lupus.org or to the Firefighter’s Wives Association, Inc., Fall River City, c/o the Mayor’s office, 1 Government Center, Fall River, MA 02721, contact Sharon Furtado at 508-642-9248, or visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/frffwa