John J. Doyle Jr.

John J. Doyle Jr., age 87, a pillar of strength, devotion, and kindness, passed away peacefully at his home in Canton on April 22, 2024. Born in Norwood, MA, John's life was a testament to his unwavering faith, love for his family, and dedication to serving his community. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother, John leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion.

He is survived by his cherished wife, Virginia M. (Lyons), his loving daughters Alison Thebado and her husband Patrick of Plymouth, Andrea Anderson and her husband Richard of Norton, and his devoted son Greg Doyle of Brighton. His joy for life was further enriched by his grandchildren, Jacqueline Ahearn and her husband Matthew Thomson of Bellingham, Kelly Thebado of Plymouth, and Nicole Anderson of Norton. He was also a caring brother to Francis Doyle and his wife Alvina Baxter-Moran of Yarmouth Port, and he is predeceased by his mother Marie (Giampa) Doyle and his siblings Elizabeth Phelan and Marie Leuchter. Additionally, he’s also survived by his sister-in-law Lorraine Donovan and her husband Frederick of St. Simons Island, GA, and many beloved nieces and nephews.

John's formative years were spent in Norwood, where he excelled both academically and athletically graduating from Norwood High School as Captain of the football, basketball, and baseball teams. His pursuit of excellence continued at Boston College, where he earned both his bachelors and masters degrees, laying the foundation for his lifelong commitment to education and social work. John proud veteran of the United States Army and was honorably discharged after nine years of service to his country as a Captain.  

Throughout his career, John was a beacon of hope and support for many. As the Director of Catholic Charities of Boston, he touched countless lives with his generosity and dedication. His passion for helping others led him to additional work as a Social Worker for the Veterans Administration in Brockton and Bedford, and he also made significant contributions to the Norwood Hospital's Social Services. At the time of his passing, he was still offering his expertise at Southcoast Behavioral Health in Dartmouth. His influence in his field was profound, as he was instrumental in ensuring that social workers in Massachusetts were required to have licensure, and was the very first social worker in Massachusetts to receive a license.

John's faith was the cornerstone of his existence. A devout Catholic, he attended mass weekly, drawing strength and solace from his spiritual practice. His love for reading was insatiable, and he could often be found at the Canton Public Library, immersed in the world of books. An avid sports fan, John's enthusiasm for the Boston Red Sox, New England Patriots, and Boston College Football was infectious. Above all, John was a devoted family man, whose selflessness and kind nature were the hallmarks of his character. His faith-filled life was an inspiration to all who knew him, and his legacy will continue to be felt through the many lives he impacted.

John's journey through life was marked by an unwavering commitment to his family, his faith, and his community. As we bid farewell to this extraordinary man, we take comfort in the knowledge that his spirit will live on through the cherished memories he leaves behind and the positive changes he fostered in the world. John J. Doyle Jr., your love and compassion will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, dear husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.

Visiting hours at the Dockray & Thomas Funeral Home 455 Washington St. Canton Sunday 3:00 to 6:00 pm. Funeral Mass at St. Oscar Romero Church Canton Monday morning at 10:00. Interment Canton Corner Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canton Public Library 786 Washington St. Canton, MA 02021 or to the Joslin Diabetes Center 1 Joslin PL Boston, MA 02215.

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