James B. Doyle

James Bernard Doyle was born in Detroit, Michigan on November 19, 1929 to Bernard and Frances Doyle. He was one of 3 children. James passed away peacefully December 20, 2017 in Livonia, Michigan under the gentle care of Angela Hospice at the age of 88.

He was the beloved husband of Bettie for 62 1/2 years. Loving father of James Doyle, Kathleen (Paul) Patrick, Ann (Scott) Stacho, Mary Holden, the late Mike Doyle (d. 2012), and Joe Doyle (d. 1986). Dear grandfather of Cory (Jaimie) Patrick, Lauren (Josh) Reed, and Luke Holden. Great grandfather of Claire Patrick, Alison Reed, and Titus Reed. Brother of Margaret (the late Mike) Simon, and the late Dan (the late Barbara) Doyle.

Jim was a kind and gentle soul, always helpful to strangers and friends alike. He served his church, his country and most importantly his wife of 62 years, Bettie, and his family. He began his church service as an altar boy. As an adult, he was a dedicated member and volunteer in the St. John Bosco parish. For many years he served as an usher, ran the church bingo and helped out in any way that he could.

In the 1950’s, Jim served in the U.S. Army at an outpost in Korea. In 1955, he married the love of his life Bettie Ann. Soon after, their home became filled with the joyful noise of their six children, Jim, Kathleen, Michael, Ann, Joe and Mary. Jim was a dedicated father who was very active in his children’s lives. He often served as a coach for their sports teams, and supported them in all of their endeavors. Jim always worked hard and provided for his family as a foundryman, and in later years in the fire systems industry. Before he knew it he was a grandpa. His grandchildren Cory, Lauren and Luke brought him much joy. As the years went by, he became a great-grandfather to Claire, Alison and Titus. His face would light up whenever they came for a visit. His family filled him with happiness.

One of Jim’s passions was fishing. Whenever he knew he was going to be near a lake or stream, he’d throw his pole and tackle box in the car. He also enjoyed bowling and golfing with his friends for many years. Jim was very proud of his Irish Heritage and St. Patrick’s Day never went by without a wee bit of celebration!

Through good times and bad, Jim never lost his faith in God. He was a wonderful example of kindness and generosity to all he met. His twinkling Irish eyes and smile will be missed by many.

The family will receive friends for a visitation on Tuesday, December 26, 2017 from 3-9pm with a 7pm Rosary at Harry J. Will Funeral Home 25450 Plymouth, (Just east of Beech Daly) Redford Township, Michigan 48239.

There will be a Mass to celebrate James' life at 10am on Wednesday, December 27, 2017 at St. John Bosco Catholic Church 12170 Beech Daly, Redford, MI 48239. The final viewing time will begin at 9:30am.

James will be laid to rest with Committal Prayers, next to his two sons in St. Hedwig Catholic Cemetery in Dearborn Heights, Michigan.

The Funeral Mass and the Committal Service will be led by Father Richard Osebold.

Memorial Donations may be made in honor of James to:

The Capuchins Ministries and Charities

https://www.thecapuchins.org/donate

1820 Mount Elliott Street, Detroit, MI 48207

313.579.2100.