James Doyle, the popular, longest serving mayor of Pawtucket and a fixture in the city’s political leadership for generations, died Friday night. He was 78.
And old-school politician universally known as `Jim’ who climbed the city’s Democratic political ladder, Doyle served for six terms as mayor, until the end of 2010, when Don Grebien won election.
A social studies teacher at Pawtucket West High School, now Shea High School, Doyle was active in Democratic politics. He was first elected to the city council in 1970 and was reelected 13 times.
An affable fellow with the gifts of loyalty and friendship, it wasn’t unusual to attend a political event in Pawtucket and see Doyle greeting scores of constituents he knew by first name. A strong family man, Doyle leaves three children and his wife Joan. His son Sen. James Doyle II, is a Democratic state senator from Pawtucket.
Doyle grew up in a Pawtucket, once a thriving factory city and the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution. But by the time he became mayor, the city’s economy was hallowed out. He focused his energy in office to reviving the city, including launching arts and historic preservation initiatives and lobbying for a new Pawtucket-Central Falls train depot.
“Mayor Doyle loved this city and its residents, and he cherished the opportunity to serve on their behalf,’’ said U.S. Rep. David Cicilline, in a statement.
“He was the definition of a true public servant,’’ said Atty. Gen. Peter Kilmartin. His love for Pawtucket was second only his love for his family. I am fortunate to be among the many who considered him a friend and a mentor.’’