Richard J. Doyle

Richard J. “The Twig Painter” Doyle, 72, of Springfield, was Called Safely Home on Wednesday, September 23, 2015. He passed into Eternal Life from his home in Springfield surrounded by all the memories he loved and cherished. He was born in Holyoke on June 29, 1943 a beloved son of the late Edward J. Doyle and Aline B. (Amnotte) Doyle. He was raised in the Aldenville section of Chicopee and graduated in 1961 from Chicopee High School. He later attended the Massachusetts College of Art and the University of Mississippi. While in Mississippi, he saw many old rural dwellings. His artistry began with the use of a simple twig and he began doodling the many “shacks” that captivated his passion. He later moved to the French Quarter in New Orleans where he opened an art gallery. He was drafted into the United States Army where he served his country during the Vietnam War attaining the rank of Specialist Fourth Class. While in the Army, he became a military artist and was sent to Bangkok, Thailand. Following his military service, he returned to Springfield where he began his business on Boston Road. He was known as “The Twig Painter” and ran his business until his passing. He also served for many years as an Adjunct Professor of Art at American International College in Springfield. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his brother-in-law, Kevin Bouvier. He leaves his loving brother, David E. Doyle and his wife, Leona, of Chicopee; his loving sister, Marilyn R. Bouvier of East Longmeadow; his two cherished nieces, Mary French and her husband, Daniel, and Aline Rogers; his grandnephew, two grandnieces, several cousins and his many friends. He also leaves his longtime companion, Carol. His family would like to thank Ben Brown from Greater Springfield Senior Services and the entire staff from the Veterans’ Administration in Springfield. A Service of Committal with United States Army Military Honors will be held on Wednesday, September 30, 2015 at 2 p.m. in the Chapel at the Massachusetts Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, 1390 Main Street, Agawam, MA 01001. There are no visiting hours at the St. Pierre – Phaneuf Aldenville Chapels, (413-532-9806), 13 Dale Street, Chicopee, MA 01020. His family has requested that memorial donations be made in his memory to the Perkins School for the Blind, 175 North Beacon Street, Watertown, MA 02472. For more details, please visit: www.stpierrephaneuf.com