Duffy was born in Paterson, N.J., and prepared for Princeton at St. Peter’s Preparatory School. He majored in English in the American civilization program and wrote his thesis on “The Political Novel in American Literature.” He was a member of Quadrangle Club and class secretary. He was also associate managing editor of The Daily Princetonian.
After graduation, Vincent spent two years in the Marines and then began a brief career in journalism with the Vineyard Gazette on Martha’s Vineyard. Journalism led to public relations and then to marketing with the Overseas National Airways. He started in public affairs as managing director of the New York office of Powell Tate, with a particular interest in banking, insurance, and electric utilities. His favorite vacation spots included Wainscott, in East Hampton, Long Island; Jackson Hole, Wyo.; and various islands in the Caribbean.
He was predeceased by his wife, Vivien, and is survived by their daughter, Cullen.