This piece was written last week by Miriam Hughes, Chair of ASA Ireland, reflecting on Aidan Duffy's incredible career.
Aidan Duffy sadly passed away on the 26th May 2024 – The world has lost a leading light, and the halls of advertising and marketing feel emptier this week.
Everyone I met over the last few days had only good things to say. He was a true gentleman, always so positive and extremely upbeat. He could light up any board room in the country with his hearty laugh and a quick cracking comment. He always told it as it was and worked tirelessly to find a solution to any given problem. He was an exceptional professional, genuinely loved the advertising business, always had a smile and carried himself with a bit of swagger! I can honestly say He was one of the best guys I ever met in the industry and I was lucky enough to work with Aidan both as a client and a business colleague.
He was kind, he was generous, always looking out for his clients and boy, was he was someone who was great fun. I have amazing memories of Aidan and I feel especially privileged to have worked with this exceptional colleague ,but more importantly I will always consider Aidan a friend.
Aidan was from Dundalk, started his 35+ year career in advertising in Des O Meara and Co and then moved to DDFH&B in 1984 as one of the first 10 employees. That business grew to have over 140 employees in the creative agency and Aidan was a director and shareholder.
His reputation preceded him and when I moved to Nestle first my colleagues would say that when I meet Aidan Duffy in the agency that I would love him!! And I did.
He was always on the end of a phone, always interested in my business, always willing to help and always on top of his game.
And at any social event– you would definitely want to be on Aidan Duffy’s Table!!
Some years later I moved to the agency and Aidan was an exceptional colleague ,mentor and took great pleasure in showing me the ropes… and all the watchouts!!!
Aidan was always a fabulous Husband, the proudest Dad and Granddad that I know and he has left a gaping hole in his family and an equally big gap in so many of his friends lives.
That was the man he was, so many places that will be emptier without him and he will be sorely missed.
Heartfelt condolences to his wife Brenda, his children Ian, Ailbhe and Karl and all his family and friends.
May he rest in peace.
