Gwendolyn B. Duff, 101, of Watertown, New York, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2026, at the Samaritan Keep Nursing Home, where she had been a resident.

Born on October 8, 1924, in the Town of Watertown, she was the daughter of Ralph and Anna (Watts) Barton. Gwendolyn graduated from Belleville Union Academy in 1942 and attended business school until 1943.

Following her education, she began her career with the New York Telephone Company as a telephone operator, a position she faithfully held for 30 years beginning in 1943.

On March 31, 1974, she married Roy Duff. The couple resided in Watertown until 1975, when they moved to Arkansas, where they lived until 1982. They then returned to New York and made their home in North Syracuse for four years before relocating to Theresa. Following Roy’s passing in 2002, Gwendolyn moved to the Henry Keep Apartments in Watertown.

Gwendolyn enjoyed playing bingo, sewing, and spending time with her family and friends.

She is survived by her two sons and daughters-in-law; Douglas and Toni Burns of Fancy Gap, Virginia; Robert and Patti Burns of Statesville, North Carolina; sister-in-law Janet Burns of Adams Center; seven grandchildren, Kimberly, Jessica, Angus, Cassandra, Jonathon, Jennifer, and Scott; and twelve great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Roy Duff; her son, Jack Burns; and her brother, Donald Barton.

Arrangements are with Hart & Bruce Funeral Home, Watertown. It was Gwendolyn’s wish to be cremated. Burial in Sanford Corners Cemetery will take place at the convenience of the family.

Online condolences may be left at hartandbrucefh.com.