October 12, 2016
Hon. James E. Doyle ’60; longest-serving mayor of Pawtucket, R.I.
Hon. James E. Doyle ’60, the longest-serving mayor in the history of the City of Pawtucket, R.I., died on Aug. 26, 2016, at the age of 78. A lifelong Pawtucket resident, he was most admired for his devotion to his family and his civic pride and advocacy for his beloved city.
Mayor Doyle served as Pawtucket’s chief administrator from 1998-2011 — the longest term for a mayor since the city was incorporated in 1886 — capping a commitment to public service that lasted 41 years.
During his 13-year term as mayor, he was credited with spearheading a “reawakening” of the city and bringing both a renewed sense of pride and economic stability to its residents. Mayor Doyle led the effort to create an arts and entertainment district for the city, helped establish the Pawtucket Arts Festival, which completed its 17th season this past fall, and oversaw the construction of a new water treatment facility and state-of-the-art dog pound.
After graduating from PC in 1960, he taught for two years at Pawtucket West High School, now Charles E. Shea High School. A Rhode Island Army National Guard veteran, Mayor Doyle worked as a sales representative for the Massachusetts Envelope Company, Inc. and for several pharmaceutical companies.
Mayor Doyle began his service to Pawtucket in 1970 when he was elected to the City Council. He remained a council member for 27 years, including serving as president from 1982-1987.
After leaving office in 2011, he was named vice president of business development for Bristol County Savings Bank, a position which allowed him to work closely with the business community of Pawtucket.
Mayor Doyle was the husband of Joan C. (Richer) Doyle for 52 years. He also is survived by two daughters, Joanne M. Doyle and Cristen J. Doyle Cobery; a son, Jamie E Doyle II ’94, and his wife, Jaclyn; seven grandchildren; a brother; two nephews; a niece; and a grand-niece.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated for Mayor Doyle on Sept. 2 in St. Cecelia Church, Pawtucket. Burial was in Notre Dame Cemetery, Pawtucket.
