Lawrence John Doyle of East Haven obituary: Clancy-Palumbo Funeral Home, East Haven

Lawrence John Doyle

December 9, 1945 – October 16, 2025

The man. The myth. The legend. Lawrence “Larry” John Doyle, longtime Director of the East Haven Counseling & Community Services, passed peacefully at home surrounded by family and friends on October 16, 2025. Born on December 9, 1945, to Nora (Slattery) and John Doyle — the favorite child, according to his siblings, not him — Larry spent a lifetime living up to that title.

He leaves behind his beloved wife of nearly 56 years (he liked round numbers, so he decided 55 was close enough); his devoted and spirited daughter, Judith Doyle, and her partner, Christopher Wright; his ever-witty son, Sean Doyle, and daughter-in-law, Rebecca Doyle; and his three sensational grandchildren — Keely, Liam, and Aidan — who filled his life with pride and joy.

He is also survived by his dear sister, Kate Verzi and her partner Joe of Wethersfield, and brothers Joe and Kevin Doyle of East Haven. Together, they shared a lifetime of laughter, stories, and sibling antics that could fill volumes. He couldn’t let his sister Mary outshine him, so he decided to join her in heaven — where we’re sure the two are already catching up and keeping everyone entertained.

Larry was a leader, a rock star, and the person everyone turned to when they needed advice — or just someone to listen. He carried others’ burdens quietly, keeping their secrets locked tighter than Fort Knox.
A proud Navy veteran who served during the Vietnam War, Larry’s service shaped his lifelong sense of duty, humor, and resilience.

When Larry arrived at the gates of heaven, they surely swung wide open. No doubt he’s already the life of the party wherever he’s gone — telling stories, offering sage advice, and making everyone feel like an old friend.
Larry’s legacy will live on in the hearts he helped heal, the laughter he inspired, and the family and friends who were lucky enough to be part of his extraordinary story.

Family will receive friends from 4 to 7 PM on Thursday October 23, 2025 at the Clancy-Palumbo Funeral Home (Clancy Funeral Home), 43 Kirkham Ave., East Haven. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday October 24 at 10 AM in St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish at the Church of St. Vincent de Paul, 80 Taylor Ave., East Haven with Committal to follow along with US Navy Honors at Rose Hill Cemetery in Rocky Hill CT.