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Barbara Doyle Obituary
June 4, 1936 - May 4, 2016
Born and raised in the Cleveland suburb of Lakewood, Barbara Browning Jones was an avid young thespian, acting and playing piano, both of which she learned from her parents. The Joneses were one of three founding couples of the Lakewood Little Theatre (The Beck Center) with little Barb "directing" up a storm.
"Bobbie," as she was known then, went on to graduate from Michigan State University ('57), earning a teaching degree in English. She was tapped as one of the top 100 in her graduating class, and attended the first Harvest Ball at the newly opened Kellogg Center on campus. She also played a hot ukulele and was fierce at a game of bridge.
After College she worked as an Art, Speech and Drama teacher at Bay Valley High School in Ohio, driving to work each day with chiffon scarf a-flutter in her 1955 pink and white Ford Fairlaine convertible, the favorite of all the cars she ever owned!
Her future husband, Bernard K. "Mike" Doyle, Jr., came home with her one Memorial Day and whisked her off to his hometown Detroit for a marriage proposal and a diamond ring. As a young officer in the military, Mike and Barb traveled the world with 4 kids in tow to locales like Okinawa and Germany. The family experienced glorious adventures and beautiful journeys filled with friendships, all nurtured by Mom. After 27 years of Army life, Barb and Mike settled in Lansing, Michigan. There she served as Director of Religious Education for Resurrection Catholic Church. She also worked as a Liturgical minister and earned a degree in Spiritual Direction. Full of laughter and life, she made fast friends in Lansing, serving the community, sharing her spirit, heart, and stories with people, particularly those she guided and the many groups to which she belonged.
Barb is survived by her brother David (Martie) Jones; and children Karen (Katie), Meg Viggiani (John), Brian (Julianne) and Patrick (Kayla). She cherished her grandchildren Michael, Daniel and Isabella Viggiani, Allie Aurora Doyle; and Mae and Beckett Doyle, as well as Mike's family: Kathleen "Nan" Haadsma and Gerald "Jerry" (Nancy) Doyle along with their children and grandchildren.
Barb's family wishes to thank Sparrow Home Hospice Services, especially Christie, Nicole and Raina, as well as Sparrow Medical Services staff, Nick, Travis and John, for all for their kindness and compassion. We would especially like to thank our extended family and Barb's many friends for their faith, love and support. (Long live Lunchinos!)
Visitation is this evening, Friday (May 6th) from 4-7 p.m. at Gorsline-Runciman Funeral Home, 900 E. Michigan Ave. Lansing.
A Memorial service celebration will be held at the same location on Saturday (May 7th) at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the following organizations: The Michigan Peace Team (Meta Peace Team, 201 W. Miller Rd., Lansing, MI, 48911) Or The M.S.U. Children's Garden, care of the Michigan State University 4-H Foundation (535 Chestnut Rd., Room 240, E. Lansing, MI, 48824) www.grlansing.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Barbara Doyle
Sponsored by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes.
May 9, 2016
What a lovely life's story- while I didn't know Barbara personally I certainly would have loved to: what a positive and meaningful career, and so many activities in service to others ! We can all draw a lesson from the role model that she has provided, and her legacy of selflessness.
Condolences to all,
Glen Grigel: Potsdam, NY
Kathleen & John Herrick
May 8, 2016
Barb will continue to be cherished and appreciated for the magnificent presence she was in our lives. Katie, we will never forget the loving care and devotion you gave in caring for your mother. Brian, Meg, and Patrick, we watched as your constant daily calls lit up Barb's face and as she answered "I love you, too" we know just how loving you've always been to your dear mother. She loved each of you, your spouses, and children with her whole being and was so proud of each of you. It's obvious Barb's wonderful sense of humor was certainly passed on to the next generation. May your grief be comforted in the days ahead with memories of those happy times with this truly remarkable woman and knowing she is belting out some great Irish tunes with her darling Mike.
Jerry MATTSON
May 8, 2016
Barbara Doyle was the personification of "the good neighbor," and that legacy continues. And the Doyle women are all beaitiful, inside and out.
Carol Ingells
May 7, 2016
How sad I am at the passing of Barb, a magnificent woman whom I was privileged to know for many years. What spunk and joy she shared. And what courage she exhibited, probably far more than most people know! My sincere sympathy to Katie and all the family and friends who mourn her. I know she will be greatly missed AND I celebrate a life well lived, a true blessing to this world!
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Laura Ludwig
May 6, 2016
Dear Doyle Family,
I am so grateful to have known your mother and shared so many good times with her and you. I wish I could be there in person to hug you and shed my tears along with you as I mourn and cherish her at the same time. What a bright and loving light, a warm presence, someone so full of life and laughter, as many have echoed. I will be thinking of you and lighting my salt lamps for her tomorrow as I keep you in my heart and honor her unique and special spirit. My love and support to you all, the loving, funny, adventurous and always fun, Doyle family...
Bill Ludwig
May 6, 2016
At this time of grief for those of us who miss her and jubilation that Barb is with the creator, I join with Barb's friends, relatives and neighbors to celebrate a person who touched everyone she knew. May the light of God surround her, the love of God envelope her, the power of God protect her, and the presence of God watch over her. Wherever Barb is, God is.
Bill Ludwig
May 6, 2016
At this time of grief for us who will miss her and jubilation for Barb, who is with the creator, I join with Barb's relatives, friends and neighbors in celebrating a person who touched everyone she knew. May the light of God surround her, the love of God envelope her, the power of God protect her, and may the presence of God watch over her. Wherever Barb is, God is.
Pierce & Kate Kent
May 6, 2016
Dear Katie & siblings - Having been gone all day, we were shocked to come home tonight and realize that poor Barb passed on and that we missed tonight's visitation. We extend our heartfelt condolences to you on this great loss, particularly on Mother's Day weekend. Barb was a good and spiritual woman and has left her mark on this old world in you, who carry on. God love the lot of you.
Cindy Church
May 6, 2016
Barb was a grand lady! The story of her life certainly displays that. I am so sorry for your loss, Katie and family. One of my favorite memories of her was her leading the reenactment of the Christmas Story at the Children's Mass on Christmas Eve. She did not turn away children who wished to participate. I believe one year she had 70 "townspeople" and who knows how many angels. She had to repeat the cue at least twice before they appeared. Her warm smile said it all always. I will miss her presence. Peace to you.
Lulu Velasquez
May 6, 2016
Sorry to hear of Barb's passing. She was a wonderful lady and good friend. I send my condolences and prayers to the family. Sending my love to Katie and the family. I will miss her dearly. Take care and God Bless you all. Love Lulu
Lulu Velasquez
May 6, 2016
Sorry to hear of Barb's passing. She was a wonderful lady and good friend. I send my condolences and prayers to the family. Sending my love to Katie and the family. I will miss her dearly. Take care and God Bless you all. Love Lulu
May 6, 2016
Thoughts and prayers to you and your family Brian. I am so sorry to hear of your loss.
Kathy Jandreau
Michael Mitchell
May 6, 2016
Barb was a very Special lady! Loved her! My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Julie L-W
May 6, 2016
What a wonderful life! I hope the great memories give you all a little comfort in this time.
Mark and Adrienne Hartman
May 6, 2016
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Debbie Gallanthen
May 5, 2016
Prayers and love to you and your family. May God send his angles to give you comfort
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May
6
Visitation
4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes900 East Michigan Ave, Lansing, MI 48912
May
7
Funeral services provided by:
Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes900 East Michigan Ave, Lansing, MI 48912
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