Margherita Friend Doyle

Margy was the daughter of Katherine and Max Friend. She was born in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Margy had many wonderful memories of her childhood with her parents and three siblings, the late Betty Graffy, the late Max Friend, and the late Joe Friend. The siblings stayed close throughout their lifetime.

Margy is predeceased by her parents, and beloved husband James (Jim) to whom she was married for 66 years. She is survived by Mary Doyle Glover and husband Tim Glover of Houston TX; Kathleen Doyle and husband Tom Reardon of Asheville, NC; Patrick Doyle and wife Catherine Dodge Smith of Philmont, NY; Tom Doyle and wife Jan Costa of Sudbury, MA; and the late Dory Martin and husband Bill Martin; and 10 grandchildren: Jim Martin, Phillip Martin, Katy Morgan, Dodge Doyle, Adrienne Fitzwilliam, Lea Doyle, David Doyle, Sara Gollinger, Jenifer Rabby, and the late Erin Glover. She is survived by 9 great grandsons. She also leaves many beloved nieces and nephews.

Jim and Margy lived in several cities throughout Jim’s executive career with WR Grace. Margy and Jim ultimately settled in Cordova, TN. Before and after retirement, they enjoyed a full life of travel, playing bridge and golf, socializing with friends and always being available to their family, immediate and extended. Margy and Jim were both very committed to their spiritual life and were active participants and volunteers to their local church, notably St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Cordova.

Margy was known for being sunny, optimistic, and always upbeat. Besides her family, she made many friends wherever she and Jim were living. Even in her later years, she made new friends. While residing in Houston, she was adored by all the artists and residents of “Itchy Acres.” When she moved to the Village, she made close friends with some of the other residents. Margy had a great sense of humor and much joie de vivre.

She was an artist, artisan, and avid gardener, still gardening in her 90s. Margy enjoyed building elaborate dollhouses by hand for all her grandchildren. She painted, played the ukulele, was a lifelong knitter, and always stayed active. She loved her puzzles and playing Chickenfoot or a rousing hand of cards. Margy was very creative and had a strong streak of whimsy: one such example being her fairy gardens. Her children have created their own fairy gardens.

Margy tackled her cancer diagnosis with much grace and dignity. Throughout her cancer journey, Margy stayed active with art projects, socializing, walking and enjoying life. She remained close to each of her children, their families, and the extended family.

Funeral services will be held at 1 pm, Saturday, July 16, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, Cordova, TN. The burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, a donation in her name may be made to Discalced Carmelites of St. Teresa of Jesus, 7201 W. 32nd Street, Little Rock, AR 72204.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.heightsfuneralhome.com for the Doyle family.