Doyal V. Little

Lansing, Michigan

While many knew him by his nickname, everyone knew him as a gruff giant with a large heart who dearly loved his family and always exuded a sense of safety. Doyal died at McLaren Greater Lansing Hospital on Monday, March 30, 2020. Born on May 22, 1951 to Randle Little and Veo Little (Boles), he was the youngest of four brothers.

A proponent of the sciences and engineering, he worked as a packaging engineer for several years in New York at the International Paper Company. He transferred to Kellogg’s when he returned home to Michigan to help his father with his emphysema diagnosis.

It was upon his return that he met his wife, Patricia “Patty” B. Little (Bishop) in Battle Creek, MI. They married on July 11, 1987, and enjoyed 32 years together. It was also at this time that he made a career change to follow his passion with helping people and joined the police academy. After moving to Lansing and joining the Lansing Police Department, Doyal and Patty welcomed their only child, daughter Rachel Elizabeth.

He loved sharing his interest in sometimes eclectic hobbies: from fencing at Renfaires and enjoying “ye’ olden times” shows and experiences - a family favorite; friendly archery showdowns with his daughter; building mini rockets ensuring that science was fun and something to enjoy; taking professional and fun photos - an activity he shared with his wife and daughter that led to many family outings including lighthouses that were always “just around the corner” (they weren’t); antique pocket watches and ship’s lanterns; handcrafting Native American inspired wooden flutes; and a great passion for history that led to many metal detecting excursions.

Doyal is survived by his wife, Patty; his only child Rachel; his three brothers Chester (Renee) Little, Thomas (Carolyn) Little, Jerry (Kay) Little; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In keeping with Doyal’s wishes, his remains will be cremated. Also in line with his wishes, he preferred a gathering of friends and family to make new memories and share old ones as a celebration. Thus, a celebration of his life will be held at a later date once travel restrictions have been lifted. Until that time when we can celebrate together, please feel free to post photos or memories on the Tribute Wall page if you feel comfortable.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Doyal’s memory can be made to one of two causes that were close to his heart:

New Beginnings Animal Rescue (https://www.nbarmichigan.org/donate.html), a Michigan non-profit cat rescue - as he loved cats, especially hand raising orphaned kittens. If using PayPal or credit card, please put “In Memory of Doyal V. Little” into the note line so the family can be notified, or email the rescue directly so they can notify the family of your donation. Checks can be mailed to:

New Beginnings Animal Rescue

2502 Rochester Rd.

Royal Oak, MI 48073

[email protected]

Michigan Airways Program at the University of Michigan (victors.us/doyallittle), a program that supports the research and treatment for emphysema and COPD. The link for the Michigan Airways Program will automatically notify the family. Checks may be made to “University of Michigan” and sent to:

Michigan Medicine Office of Development

1000 Oakbrook Dr., Ste. 100

Ann Arbor, MI 48104-6815

or call: 734-764-6777

“May the road rise up to meet you.

May the wind always be at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face,

and rains fall soft upon your fields.

… until we meet again.”