Arklow Mourns the Passing of Beloved Fundraiser and Community Champion Anthony Doyle
The Arklow community is mourning the loss of one of its most popular and kind-hearted residents, Anthony Doyle, who passed away peacefully on 25th October at Wicklow Hospice, surrounded by his loving family.
Anthony, affectionately known as Aidy, was a man whose generosity and community spirit shone as brightly as the festive lights he became famous for. Together with his wife Arlette, Anthony transformed their home into a dazzling spectacle every Christmas and Halloween, drawing visitors from near and far and raising more than €40,000 for local charities and voluntary groups. Among the many organisations supported were the Arklow Community First Responders, RNLI, Wicklow Rapid Response, Tidy Towns volunteers, and several national health charities.
Earlier this year, despite receiving a terminal cancer diagnosis, Anthony continued to face life with courage, humour, and gratitude. His contribution to community life was recognised in March when he was chosen as Grand Marshal of the 2025 Arklow St Patrick’s Day Parade, an honour he described as one of the proudest moments of his life. In a message shared at the time, he expressed his appreciation to the committee and the people of Arklow for their kindness and support, saying he looked forward to seeing everyone and being part of the festivities.
Among the many tributes paid following his passing, one of the most heartfelt came from the Arklow Community First Responders, who described Anthony as their “greatest champion.” They recalled how, after the tragic loss of his son Anthony Junior in 2012, he became deeply committed to supporting their lifesaving work. His fundraising and dedication helped transform the group from a small local effort into one of the best-equipped and most active community responder networks in the country.
Thanks to his continuous support, Arklow now has 14 public access defibrillators and a highly trained team ready to respond to emergencies. Members said his impact on both their organisation and the wider community “can never be overstated,” and they spoke of their deep sadness at losing not only a supporter but also a close and valued friend.
Anthony’s passing has left a deep sadness across the town, where he was admired not only for his fundraising efforts but also for his warmth, positivity, and commitment to helping others. His legacy will continue to light up Arklow for years to come.
He is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife Arlette, his daughters Sabrina and Charlene, his step-children Yasha and Alex, his grandchildren Caitlin, Jake, Nicole, Anthony, Alana and Ayla, his brothers and sisters, extended family, neighbours and many dear friends. He was predeceased by his son, Anthony and sister Jean.
Reposing will take place at Sweeney’s Funeral Home on Monday from 12 noon until 6 p.m. House private until then. Removal will take place on Tuesday at 9.30 a.m. to St Mary and Peter’s Church, Arklow, arriving for Requiem Mass at 10 a.m., followed by burial in St Gabriel’s Cemetery, walking via Fernhill. Those unable to attend can join via the parish webcam at www.arklowparish.ie/webcam.
Donations, if desired, can be made to Arklow Community First Responders at gofund.me/2fe5c86b3.
May he rest in peace.
