John Douglas “Doug” Lyall co-founded The Center for Hope, along with his wife, Mary, after their daughter Suzanne disappeared on March 2, 1998. He passed away on August 26, 2015 at the age of 73. While gone far too early, his presence remains through his work ... and the many great relationships … he so skillfully cultivated. Words truly cannot adequately describe or pay tribute to Doug ... the wonderful husband, father, grandfather, friend and colleague … that he was.

Given the circumstances it would have been easy to dwell on things that could have been differently; to even to become demanding or unreasonable with respect to expectations. But he always talked about things in a kind, thoughtful and constructive way … intent on always maintaining an atmosphere of cooperation and moving forward; intent on finding his daughter and helping others along the way.

Doug was then, and forever will be those “ordinary people who do extraordinary things”. Always evident was how his caring, commitment, vision and generating collaboration between people from so many walks of life – brought about real change. We teach kids “There is strength in numbers.” Doug - and Mary - made good use of that simple concept.


Extraordinary accomplishments.

- Of course, first and foremost was creating “The Center for Hope” in 2001. A place for anyone to call, anytime of day, to not only get sound advice, but to speak with someone who has a truly sympathetic ear in dealing with the “painful emotions”. Indirect and direct action to do better.

- Quietly persevering behind the scenes, Doug ensured that the “NYS Campus Safety Act” moved from a thought, to a piece of paper, to law in 1999. Unlike anything, anywhere in the nation, it mandated prompt investigation of violent felonies and missing student cases on all college campuses. Only through the partnership shaped by them - between left behind family members, other advocates, Legislators, college officials, law enforcement and many others - was the law enacted and then “brought to life” -- in Doug’s words.

- The NYS missing college student investigation guide was a next step Doug was especially intent on pursuing this, again to “bring the law to life.” He strongly felt that missing persons was a topic that could be handled more effectively in police training. As a result of the collaboration, a comprehensive manual was developed and distributed to college public safety and police agencies throughout the state. It was eventually requested by agencies across the nation and content was added to the missing person investigation manual published by the NCMEC. At the same time we were also able to add a new 3 hour segment into NYS Basic Course for Police Officer mandates, dedicated solely to handling missing person cases. Two more unprecedented accomplishments that have strengthened how missing person cases are handled statewide ... and as mentioned, even nationwide.

- Pursuit and passage of the Federal version of “Suzanne’s Law” in 2003. This changed the age of mandatory action required of law enforcement to 21 (from 18), including the important requirement to enter missing person information into state and NCIC databases. Doug repeatedly said that as children move so quickly from the safety of the home to college dorms, this was such an important element of a stronger “safety net”.

- Creation of the inspirational “Remorial”, within walking distance from here, dedicated in the Fall of 2006. Based upon a monument that Doug and Mary visited in Ireland in 2002, it serves in Doug’s words “It conveys hope that that many missing persons will return safely.” “At the same time, it provides a beautiful setting that serves as a meeting place where families can come to reflect and remember, and where healing can begin”. A symbol of eternal hope… An incredible accomplishment; completed using only private sector donations and a legislative grant – on property donated by the State.

- Creation of an innovative and unprecedented partnership with NYS Taxation and Finance to place missing person and safety information in the center fold of every tax form/instruction booklet printed – with literally millions distributed annually. The program went on from 2001-2007 but unfortunately ended when NYS stopped printing forms and began to require electronic filing.

- Enhancing the search for answers through the missing person playing card program. Again, so innovative, creating decks of playing cards featuring missing persons. The hope was that someone using them would be prompted to come forward with lead information.

- Developing “What To Do If A Loved One Goes Missing” – a brochure with concise, meaningful advice … backed up with answering the phone for anyone who called seeking help – always.

- Developing “Just the Facts – Just in Case” – similar to the “All About Me” booklet that records vital information, in once place, for easy retrieval if a child goes missing, this was written and intended for adults – especially for college students leaving home for the first time.

- Changing the NYS Executive Law dramatically in 2011, after many years of effort, to create a comprehensive framework to ensure that not just children, but adults who disappear under questionable circumstances, are handled with the level of attention and consistency deserved.

- Enactment of NYS Missing Persons Day. Intended to ensure that the cause is never minimized; that missing persons are not forgotten and left behind family members are provided with meaningful support – the first day was on April 6, 2001.


All brought from ideas ... to actions … helping to make things a bit better for many. All tirelessly driven by … Doug. A few words to describe Doug…

Innovative – Because of everything mentioned above. So much progress with very little financial assistance and no staff – just vision and desire. Just creative and focused thoughts coupled with a realistic plan to accomplish them.

Genuine – Doug was the living definition of genuine. No hidden agendas, just always trying to do the right thing in an honest, thoughtful and kind manner.

Patience – According to a quote attributed to Michelangelo, “Genius is eternal patience.” There is no doubt, Doug was a genius … He NEVER appeared to be impatient. Such an admirable trait; one that seems to be less and less a virtue. The world would be a far better place with more Doug’s.

Partner – A unique talent … he really knew how to build bridges. He was able to regularly create harmony between people from very different walks of life. And as a result of his consensus building – solidarity and real accomplishments were achieved.

Family – Devoted to his family in every possible way, always. Reason, kindness, direction and devotion were just natural … always

Friend – “My best friend is the one who brings out the best in me” (Henry Ford). Doug was a best friend to all who knew him.

Capable – In countless ways. But one that always stood out was his ability to be in front of a television camera, speaking with complete comfort. He always responded to questions and told the story in a calm, informed and compelling way. (If you have never done live or recorded TV, it can be very intimidating – especially if you begin to think about how many people may be watching. If you make even one misstep, there’s taking it back.)

Influential – Always a subtle, yet influential presence ... actually even when not present. One time, an advocate was having a "spirited" debate with representatives of the Governor’s Office, Senate and Assembly about the best possible content for broader missing person legislation. Frustrated with lack of agreement and in response to an uninformed comment by a representative, the advocate finally said, "would you say what you are suggesting if Doug and Mary were sitting here?" End of discussion…and success (the legislation was signed into law in 2011.)

Saint – He always seemed to be one, and those in Heaven are now in good company with Doug joining them.

Kind – His presence was one that caused people to breathe a bit easier, regardless of the circumstances.

Success – At a time in his life when he was beginning to lessen the pace he was thrust into a new role … one that no one can prepare for. He found himself following in the footsteps of Taylor and Jennie Wilson, Robert and Frances Wood, John Walsh, Patty Wetterling and Marc Klaas... and too many others. Within a few moments and thereafter, years, he had to bow to defeat or pursue success … really nothing in between. But he challenged his new role and never looked back. As a loving father, he was driven to find his daughter “Suzy” … and at the same time he selflessly gave of himself to others. Completely understanding their emotions and pain, he had to make the lives of others easier. Success wasn’t optional, it was essential. And he surely succeeded. What a tribute … What a legacy.


All who knew Doug will miss him eternally. But all can all take some comfort in knowing that during his time with us, he eternally made a difference. He is surely looking down on us now with pride to see how his work continues – with that great smile that you also can’t forget. Doug, until we meet again, in the words of Bob Hope, “Thanks for the memories”.