Ryan Duffy, 18, 'Amazing Young Man,' Avid Sports Fan [Obituary]

LANGHORNE, PA — Neshaminy High School senior Ryan Duffy loved the Philadelphia Phillies and Eagles. He was becoming an avid sports fan, even hoping to attend a World Cup game next year.

But the 18-year-old Duffy suddenly became ill and died from bacterial meningitis last week. The Neshaminy School District is mourning his loss, and family and friends attended a memorial on Sunday to pay tribute to him.

"Our hearts are with Ryan’s family, his friends, and all who loved him. Our entire Neshaminy community mourns this tragic loss," the school district said.

His obituary was provided by the James O. Bradley Funeral Home in Penndel.

"Ryan was an amazing young man who will be missed by everyone that he touched. He was a Senior at Neshaminy High School and was excited about going on the Senior Cruise, attending Prom, participating in his fourth gym night, and, graduation," his obituary stated.

Duffy loved electronic and board games, and organized and played them with family and friends all the time, his obituary said.

Duffy was diagnosed with Streptococcus Pneumoniae Meningitis, a common type of bacteria that can cause ear infections, sinus infections, pneumonia, and meningitis. Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.

He is survived by his parents, Karen and Sean, as well as his sister, Colleen, and his two brothers, Brendan and Liam. He is also survived by his two maternal grandparents, Kathy and Harry Stark, and two paternal grandparents, Betty and Jerry, as well as aunts, uncles, and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, contributions or donations in Duffy's memory can be made to Gift of Life (organ donation).