Neal Boyle, OFM

1917 – 1973

Fr. Neal Boyle, OFM, was born on March 26, 1917 in Mattapan, Mass. He entered the novitiate at St. Bonaventure Friary in Paterson, N.J., in 1940, professing temporary vows one year later. He made his solemn profession in 1944 and was ordained a priest in 1946.

He was among the first friars who helped form St. Anthony Shrine in Boston. Fr. Neal also ministered at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in New York City. His last 17 years of ministry were spent preaching parish missions with the Province’s Mission Band.

Fr. Neal was deeply perceptive of the needs of others, and responded to those needs with generosity and enthusiasm. He was ready, willing and available to help in the friaries where he lived. Fr. Neal’s cheerful presence mirrored the joy of spirit within him, and his Franciscan life was a monument to the persistence of zeal and enthusiasm, which marked his entire life.

He died on Nov. 4, 1973 in Needham, Mass. Fr. Neal was 56 years old, a professed friar for 32 years, and a priest for 27 years.