Dr. Thomas F. Boyle

South Plainfield - Dr. Thomas F. Boyle, 60, died suddenly on Saturday, August 25, 2007 at Muhlenberg Regional Medical Center in Plainfield.

Born in Jim Thorpe, PA., raised in Dunellen, he moved into South Plainfield in 1985. He attended St. Joseph's High School, where he went on to receive his BA from William Patterson University. A passion for education followed to Kean University for his Masters in Education. In 2004, he proudly earned his Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Nova University.

Dr. Boyle was currently employed as the Superintendent of Schools for the Somerset County Educational Services Commission for the past 10 years. He was previously the Computer Technoloy Coordinator and former teacher for the Warren Township Board of Education. Additionally , Dr. Boyle served as the Tax Assessor for Dunellen, Highland Park & Winfield Park municipalities.

An overly active individual, Dr. Boyle wore many hats. Throughout his life he gave freely of himself to numerous organizations. During his time in Dunellen he was an active member of the National Guard & the Knights of Columbus. He was a Dunellen Councilman, as well as an exempt Dunellen fireman. He took the roll of a special police officer in South Plainfield during the early 1970's. Other memberships included time served on the Ancient Order of the Hibernian's, the Somerset County Education Association where he served as treasurer and long hours at the South Plainfield Music Boosters meeting as a "Pit Dad." His most recent venture took him to the South Plainfield Rescue Squad as a Certified EMT.

His latest calling brought him back to his roots fighting fires. His courageous spirit lead him to the Ocean Beach #3 Vol Fire Company Station #27. His leadership qualities gave him the ability to become a valued trustee and treasurer. In 2006, Dr. Boyle earned a life saving award for his heroic action during an ocean water rescue.

His father Francis is predeceased.

He is survived beloved wife of 37 years. , Diane (Cannizzaro), and his three cherished daughters and their husbands, Kristen "Ce-Ce" and Christopher Lakatos, and Kellie & Carmine DeSan all of Bridgewater as well as his youngest, Tiffany & Brian Toth of Coatsville, PA.

Most importantly the light of his life, a granddaughter who lovingly called him "Poxie," Shannon Lakatos. His mother, Kathleen and step father Al Frankowski of Dunellen and his siblings Kathy & Patrick Boyle and their families.

Also surviving are his two dogs, Loni & Trini who would often be seen with him riding in the front basket of his bicycle down the Lavallette Board walk.

Funeral services will begin on Thursday, August 30, 2007 at 9:00 AM in the McCriskin - Gustafson Home For Funerals, 2425 Plainfield Avenue, South Plainfield, NJ 07080. A funeral mass will be follow at 10:00 AM in St. Joseph's Church, East Somerset Street, Raritan, NJ.

Entombment will follow in Ocean County Memorial Park Mausoleum, Toms River.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 29, 2007 from 2-4 & 7-9 PM in the funerals home. The volunteer organizations will hold services at 8:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers donations in his memory may be made to S.C.E S.C., P.O. Box 68, Raritan NJ 08869 for the Dr. Thomas Boyle Educational College Scholarship