Gerard J Doyle

Gerard J Doyle

Lieutenant

Department
St. John's Fire Department
Location
St. John's, NL
Employment
Career (Full Time)
Date of Death
Date of Birth
Age at Death
74
Memorial Panel
1

Story

Lieutenant Gerard Joseph Doyle died July 14, 2022 of Stage Four Firefighters Esophageal Cancer. He was 74 years old and joined in 1968.

Everyone called him Jerry.

Family Memories:

Jerry was well-known as a protector of hearts.  He was life in itself.

A steady voice and strong hand up, welcoming to all people.  He took a genuine interest in the places we live and its history.  He shared a deep soul connection with dogs, horses and nature.

He loved his job. The Fire Hall was his second family. A Local 1075 Brother once said “Jerry went back into the engulfed building to save the owners beloved cat and dog before the structure collapsed.  He put his head down and led the way.”

Jerry once said “after doing what I was trained to do, I remember holding him in my arms at his time of death, he was not alone.”

Jerry Doyle was always first on site. His presence; earned him the Petty Harbour, NL Lifetime Achievement award, K of C, 4th Degree Grand Knight, a War Memorial founder, a key Curator for his hometown Museum and his parish Choir Director for over 25 years.  He sang for many births, weddings and funerals.

He was a self-taught musician, who lifted people up with his love of music. The most skilled sportsman on the field or salmon river.  A fierce competitor in hockey or a friendly game of cards.  A devoted husband of 50 years, loving and always there, Dad.

“A good in every way”, Papa.  A brother to look up to. A friend.

Jerry was a dependable man who did good deeds, unconditionally.  He was a proud man with a smile that would light up the room.

In life, Jerry never backed from a fire. With a brother’s fighting spirit, he lived everyday with bravery and honour.  He did his best and we love him for it.