Allyn F. Little

Shrewsbury - Allyn Francis Little was born on November 26, 1941 in Marlborough a son of the late Melvin James Little and Katherine (Blair) Little. A graduate of Marlborough High School he played on its football team and was part of the team the year they won the championship that took the team to Florida. He attended Mass College of Art and earned his degree from New England School of Art and Design in Boston. Allyn served six years in the National Guard in Worcester.

He met Diane C. Rondeau one summer when she was at her family's cottage and lake where he was the lifeguard. They later married on June 19, 1965 in The First Baptist Church in Worcester and have made Shrewsbury their home for over 50 years.

For over 35 years he enjoyed a good career with the Telegram & Gazette as a graphic designer, retiring in 2001.

In addition to his career with the T & G, Allyn was an accomplished artist which included water colors, painting and photography. His works included historical buildings, landscapes and portraits. Allyn often walked and travelled with his camera strapped around his neck so as to quickly capture a beautiful experience in nature, an animal or scenery from a daily walk. Many of these photos would later become paintings that he would passionately and diligently create.

Allyn had a natural gift and talent with his artwork. He would humbly but proudly show many families and friends his artwork not for the adulation but rather so that they could appreciate the beauty in both nature and mankind and experience what he saw through his eyes.

He was always fully engaged and genuinely interested in those with whom he would be sharing conversation. He loved his daily walks, his dog Abby, skiing, tennis, singing in the choir, a round of golf, gardening and puzzles. A smile was a constant in his life and he adored doting on his grandkids and attending their various activities and events.

Allyn's long struggle with Alzheimer's disease came to its end on Friday, March 4, 2022. He died surrounded by family. He was 80 years old.

He will be remembered as a kind, loving and gentle soul who epitomized patience, always willing to lend a helping hand to those with a project, yard work or any task. His terrific sense of humor, quick wit and play on words with corny puns will be missed.

In addition to his wife of 57 years, Diane, he leaves his sons, Scott A. Little (Kerry) of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina and Michael K. Little (Elizabeth) of Shrewsbury; his grandchildren, Kaleigh, Emily, Cole and Sydney; his sister, Linda Daley of Framingham and the late James Little; his brother-in-law, Edmond Rondeau of Florida; nieces & nephews.

Family and friends will honor and remember Allyn's life on Sunday, March 13th by gathering for his Life Celebration from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at The Barn at The Village of Orchard Meadows, 2 Orchard Meadows Drive, Shrewsbury. Burial is private.

Memorials in Allyn's name may be made to Alzheimer's Association, 309 Waverley Oaks Road, Waltham, MA 02453 or www.alz.org

Arrangements by James & John Heald of The Joyce Funeral Home