Obituary: Deacon Joseph T. DuVarney, 96

Deacon Joseph T. DuVarney, 96, entered peacefully into eternal rest on Feb. 11 surrounded by the love of his family and the grace of God, whom he served so devotedly throughout his life.

Born in Lancaster, he was the devoted son of the late Louise (Poulin) and Albert DuVarney. From his earliest days, Deacon DuVarney carried within him a deep sense of faith, community, and service that would shape the course of his long and dedicated life.

In December 2025, Deacon DuVarney’s beloved wife, Barbara C. (Turini) DuVarney, was called home to the Lord. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love, partnership, and shared devotion. Together they built not only a family, but a life centered in faith, fellowship, and community.

Deacon DuVarney is survived by his three sons: Joseph DuVarney Jr. of Pembroke, NH; Anthony DuVarney and his wife Annette of West Boylston; and Dominic DuVarney and his wife Kelley of Austin, Texas. He was predeceased by his beloved daughter, Mary Lanciani of Sterling.

As founding members of the Colonial Miniature Horse Club, Joseph and Barbara shared their love of animals and formed lasting friendships with others who shared that same passion.

Deacon DuVarney dedicated 20 years of his professional life as a skilled machinist at LaPointe Machine and Tool Company, where his strong work ethic and steady hands earned the respect of all who knew him. He later served his community as a bus driver for the WRTA and for the public schools of Boylston and West Boylston, safely transporting generations of children with kindness, care, and laughter.

Yet it was his vocation to serve Christ and his Church that defined Deacon DuVarney most profoundly. Answering God’s call, he attended Mirimar Seminary in Duxbury and spent a year as a novice in Techny, Illinois, discerning the Lord’s will with courage and devotion. His faithful journey led him to serve the parish community of St. Joseph Parish in Worcester and later as a Deacon at Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish in West Boylston, where he was a devoted and active member for many years. At the altar and among his parish family, he lived out the Gospel through service, compassion, and steadfast faith. He was also a proud member of the Knights of Columbus.

Deacon DuVarney will be remembered for the humor and wit he so generously shared. A natural comedian with remarkable timing and warmth, he brought joy to countless family gatherings and community events.

Above all, Deacon DuVarney was a man of deep faith, a devoted husband, and a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He understood that life was both a sacred calling and a gift to be shared. Having walked with Christ for 96 years, we trust that he has now heard the words he longed for: “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Family and friends are welcomed to visiting hours on Thursday, Feb. 19 from 5-7 p.m. at Fay Brothers Life Celebration Home, 1 West Boylston Street, West Boylston.
A funeral Mass will be held Friday, Feb. 20 at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, 111 Worcester Street, West Boylston.

Burial will take place in the spring in Hillside Cemetery, Sterling.