Doyle Mayor Steps Down After 16 Years Leading Town

After 20 years of public service in the Town of Doyle, including the past 16 years as mayor, Ray Spivey announced Monday night he is stepping away from the position because of health concerns.

Spivey shared his resignation publicly in a letter addressed to the Doyle Board of Mayor and Aldermen and the town's residents, saying the decision was effective immediately.

"It is with a full but heavy heart that I submit my resignation as Mayor of the Town of Doyle due to health reasons," Spivey wrote. "This decision has been one of the hardest I have ever had to make."

When Spivey first stepped into public service as a Doyle alderman two decades ago, he did not know the role would become such a defining part of his life. What started with a seat on the Board of Mayor and Aldermen led to 16 years as mayor and a place in the town's history."I never imagined when I first took office that I would have the honor of becoming the longest-serving mayor in Doyle's history," Spivey said. "That distinction belongs not to me alone, but to the people of this community who placed their trust and confidence in me year after year."

Throughout his letter, Spivey reflected on what the town has meant to him during his time in office, describing Doyle as more than just a place he represented.

"Doyle has never simply been a place on a map," Spivey wrote. "It is my home. It is where neighbors become family, where people step up to help one another, and where hard work, faith, and kindness still matter."

Over the years, Spivey said the progress made in Doyle was never the result of one person, but instead came from a community willing to work together. He credited those who served beside him throughout the years for helping guide the town through both accomplishments and challenges.

"Together we have celebrated successes, worked through challenges, and accomplished things that none of us could have achieved alone," Spivey said.

Although Spivey said stepping away was difficult, he explained his health made it necessary to allow new leadership to move the town forward.

"While my heart wants to continue serving, my health tells me it is time to step aside," Spivey wrote. "Doyle deserves leadership that can devote the energy and attention this office requires, and I believe this is the best path forward for our town."

Looking back on his time leading the town, Spivey said the position represented far more than the responsibilities that came with the office. It was an opportunity to serve the community he has called home and the people who trusted him to lead it.

"Serving as your mayor has been far more than a title—it has been one of the greatest honors and blessings of my life," Spivey wrote.

While his time leading the town has come to a close, Spivey said his support for Doyle will continue.

"Although my time as your mayor is coming to an end, my love for Doyle never will," Spivey said. "I will always be cheering for this town and praying for its continued success, growth, and future."