Former and Current Students Saddened by Middle School Teacher's Death

Hillsborough Middle School teacher Barbara Doyle, 54, died Thursday, and the school has posted a tribute to the longtime seventh-grade literacy teacher on its website.

But Ashley DelVecchio, a former student of Doyle's, was moved to post a tribute also to the teacher she said inspired her. In addition to her classroom duties, Doyle directed the school's plays, and it was there that Ashley formed a bond with the teacher as she was cast as Glinda in the school's production of "The Wizard of Oz." 

The school's tribute notes Doyle "took leave from teaching last spring when diagnosed with cancer and bravely fought the illness before succumbing peacefully at home with her family.

"Ms. Doyle was known for her indomitable spirit and love for children, particularly when it came to championing the cause of the underdog, and her passion for the arts that was a creative force behind our drama and musical theater productions for many years," the Hillsborough Middle School tribute continues.

"As a resident of Hillsborough, Ms. Doyle was a friend and neighbor to many throughout our community and a vital influence in the lives of students who knew her as a teacher, mentor, and artistic inspiration and coach.

Her friends and family have planned a memorial celebration for 10 a.m. Saturday at the Somerset Valley Playhouse.

Dpyle is survived by three children, Rebecca L. Doyle of Somerset, Edward J. Doyle, of Provo, Utah, and Catherine M. Doyle of Royersford, Pa; two sisters, Carol Lentz, of Dover, and Michelle Sokolski of Walnut Creek, Calif.; her mother and stepfather, Judy and Ray Sedivec of Rockaway.

The family has asked for contributions to the American Cancer Society , P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK, 723123-1718 or the Embrace Kids Foundation, 121 Somerset Street, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, in lieu of flowers.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Hillsborough Funeral Home.