Peter Kevin Doyle

April 28, 1946 - June 25, 2025

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Obituary for Peter Kevin Doyle

With great sadness we announce the passing of Peter Doyle, who left us peacefully on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on April 28, 1946, to the late Elizabeth Martin Doyle and Patrick Doyle, Peter grew up in Milton, nurtured by his mother, Betty. He found his soulmate in Jane Coughlin, his high school sweetheart, and together they built a beautiful life in Randolph, raising their beloved family.

Upon retirement, Peter and Jane embarked on a cherished dream: five years of crisscrossing the country in their RV, a testament to their adventurous spirit and deep bond. They then found solace on Cape Cod before returning to their Milton roots, settling into Fuller Village, a place that held special meaning for them both.

Peter was a proud graduate of Catholic Memorial High School in 1964 and Northeastern University's ROTC program in 1969. He served with honor and distinction as a platoon leader with the 1st of the 46th Infantry Division in Vietnam, often reflecting that the men he served alongside were "the bravest men I've ever known." His dedication to service continued at the Brockton VA REACH program, where he worked as a vocational rehabilitation specialist for homeless veterans, a role he lovingly described as the "best job I ever had."

Peter leaves behind his devoted wife and constant companion of 56 years, Jane Coughlin Doyle. His legacy lives on through his cherished daughters and sons-in-law, Kristen and Michael Murphy of Milton, and Catherine and Brian Zinck of Melrose. Our hearts ache as we remember his beloved late son, Peter Doyle Jr.

Known affectionately as "Papa," Peter was the most adoring and enthusiastic cheerleader to his seven grandchildren. He traveled far and wide to support their milestones, from military graduations to sports endeavors and even a beauty pageant. Matthew Clifford (Shauna), Jack Clifford, his beloved late Grace Zinck, Brendan and Audrey Zinck, and Ryan and Colin Murphy, along with his great-grandchildren Jackson and Olivia, will carry his love in their hearts forever.

Peter was a loving brother to the late MaryKay Whitmore and her husband Richard of Scarborough, ME, and Donald Doyle and his wife Nancy of North Reading. He also leaves behind his brother-in-law Andrew Coughlin of Milton, along with a wide circle of extended family and countless dear friends.

A masterful storyteller, Peter captivated listeners with tales of his adventures: with his cousins, summers at the Nashua Fresh Air Camp, the Hyannis Port Caddie Camp, and from his high school, college, and military training days, as well as his travels across our great country and beyond. More than anything, Peter lived a life that led by example, embodying kindness, care, and compassion as a son, brother, husband, father, and friend to all he encountered. He possessed a beautiful way of always checking in on those he held dear, ensuring no one was ever left behind.

We find comfort in the knowledge that Peter's reunion with his loved ones who have gone before him—especially his son Peter Jr., granddaughter Grace, mother Betty, and sister MaryKay—will be a joyous and tender embrace.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Our Lady of the Visitation Parish, Saint Mary of the Hills Church, 29 St. Mary's Road, Milton Tuesday July 1, 2025 at 11:00 AM. Family and friends invited. Visitation at Dolan Funeral Home, 460 Granite Avenue EAST MILTON SQUARE, prior to the mass from 9:30-10:30 AM. Interment will take place at a later date.

In honor of Peter's beautiful spirit, please consider a donation to The Make a Wish Foundation in memory of his special angel, Grace Zinck. https://wish.org/massri/how-you-can-help

Services

1 Jul

Visitation

09:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Dolan Funeral Homes and Cremation Services - EAST MILTON SQUARE 460 Granite Avenue Milton, MA 02186 Get Directions »
1 Jul

Mass of Christian Burial

11:00 AM

Our Lady of the Visitation Parish (Saint Mary of the Hills Church) 29 St. Mary’s Road Milton, MA 02186 Get Directions »
by Obituary Assistant

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Condolences

  • June 30, 2025

    Peter and Jane were a couple of the best co-workers I'd ever worked with at VA Boston (Brockton) and Bill and I befriended them and had stayed in touch as much as retirees in other states do. Our hearts ache and will say prayers for you Jane and all of your beautiful family 💔

  • June 29, 2025

    Jane and family so sorry to hear of Peter's passing. Charlie and I are away and we are sorry we can't be there to support you, but you are in our thoughts and prayers . Peter was a wonderful fun and loving dad and husband. Sending lots of hugs Charlie and Jeannie

  • June 29, 2025

    I had the pleasure of working with Peter at the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health. He was a wonderful coworker, strong leader a bit of a character. Condolences to his family.

  • June 27, 2025

    I had the pleasure and honor of working with Peter in the early 1970's at Milton PD. Peter was a great police officer, he never failed to amaze me with his dogged determination to follow through in any situation. His most impressive quality was his empathy for the people we encountered during our shifts. Rest in Peace PK Doyle.

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