Robert William Dougherty, Sr.

Robert William Dougherty, Sr. passed away on March 15, 2025, at the age of 79. He was born on May 22, 1945 in Plainfield, New Jersey, raised in Atlanta, Georgia and graduated from Marist College High School in Atlanta.

Robert's family descended from the earliest settlers of New Amsterdam whose ancestors fought in the American Revolution. He was a Music Enthusiast and childhood musician, learning the violin and clarinet, who loved to share his extensive knowledge with his children. He especially loved Carolina Beach Music, Doo Wop, and Motown gathering lifelong friends around him through his musical circles. He was an avid golfer, fluent in Spanish, carrying that skill worldwide in his travels, and always a scholar who loved to study History, especially the American Civil War.

Robert's education at Randolph Macon College in Ashland, Virginia was characterized by his involvement in the Kappa Alpha Order and his remarkable achievement as an accomplished diver. Robert was a devoted and loving father and grandfather spending time golfing with his son and grandsons and passionately supporting his daughter Alexa in her basketball endeavors. He was fond of taking carnival cruises, beaches and the Caribbean islands. Each July, he would organize the "Flamingo Fling," a cherished tradition he was known as the father of, where close family and friends gathered for fun and fellowship in North Myrtle Beach. He was a veteran of the Naval Air Reserves.

Robert was preceded in death by his mother, Adeline Ruby Armstrong of Newark, New Jersey, and his father, William George Dougherty of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Survivors include his wife, Cathy Dougherty; sons, Robert Dougherty, Jr. and Edward Dougherty (Linda);daughter, Alexa Dougherty; grandsons, Ethan and Eli Dougherty.

Robert was known for his delightful yet discerning palate, being a picky eater who knew what he liked—but he made exceptions for the Varsity, BBQ and wings from one specific place. It is fitting that his celebration of life will feature his favorite foods, bringing together those who loved him to honor his memory in a manner reflective of his vibrant personality.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Florida Exotic Bird Sanctuary online at https://www.flabirdsanctuary.org/make-a-donation.

Lord & Stephens Funeral Home, EAST, Athens is entrusted with arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com.