Obituary: Beloved Wife and Mother Rita Doyle, 86

The following is an obituary from Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home: 

Rita T. Doyle, a retired medical secretary, passed away on Thursday, November 14, 2013 surrounded by her children. She was 86 years old.

Rita was born in Waltham, the daughter of Canadian immigrants, the late Peirre and Elizabeth Roche. She grew up and was educated in Waltham. She married Walter “Buddy” Doyle in 1948. They lived in Burlington for 25 years raising their 6 children. They both were very active in the community.

Rita worked as a medical secretary for Dr. Lennon in Woburn, Dr. Spencer in Boston, and Dr. Dadasian in Wareham. She was a member of the Burlington Country Club. After their retirement Rita and Walter lived in the Forestdale section of Sandwich.


Rita had a warm and pleasant personality, independent nature, strong faith, and genuine concern for her family, friends, neighbors, and those less fortunate which steered much of her life’s journey. No matter where she lived, she met new friends and got involved. She had a strong Catholic faith and found great comfort in attending Mass. She had a deep concern for those in need and participated in charitable activities, including a missionary trip to Honduras and through her efforts helped to make the world a better place. She embraced life, loved being with her family, out with friends, and traveling.

Rita was the loving wife of the late Walter P. Doyle. She was the caring mother of Paul Doyle of Wakefield, the late Kevin Doyle, Patricia Peach of Winchester, David Doyle of Litchfield, NH, Stephen Doyle of Woburn and Matthew Doyle of Himeji, Japan. Sister of Claudette Coto of Lowell, the late Edgar Roche, Emily Dion, Richard Roche, and Betty Wilson. Also survived by 10 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. 

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Margaret’s Church, 111 Winn St., Burlington on Monday, November 18 10:00 AM. Visiting hours will be held at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn St., BURLINGTON (exit 34 off Rt. 128/95, Woburn side) on Sunday from 3-6 p.m. The burial will be private. Donations in Rita’s name may be made to Home Health and Hospice Care, 7 Executive Park Drive, Merrimack, NH 03054 or www.hhhc.org.