David Edward Dougherty

Four Oaks, NC: Mr. David Edward Dougherty, PhD, age 76, of Wilshire Lane passed away on Sunday, March 26, 2023 at his home. His family and friends will continue to celebrate his life and memory.

Dr. or Dave or David Dougherty was born on November 4, 1946 in Canton, Ohio to the late Cyril Edward and Gladys Bennett Dougherty.  Mr. Dougherty loved life and had a passion for caring for people and being of service to his country and community. After leaving the military and achieving his PhD in Plant Pathology from the University of Georgia, he went to work at BASF.  Having been a volunteer Fire Fighter while living in Florida he continued as a Volunteer, first in Knightdale then he joined Fairview Fire Department, got his EMT certification, and became a First Responder. Dave started working with Wake County IT in January, 1999.   He worked his way up until, at the time of his retirement, he was responsible for all computer related things at the formally volunteer EMS and Fire Departments, as well as the computers in the 911 Center and EOC.

He loved trains, especially steam engines.  He frequently came to Griffin, GA., just to spend a weekend finding and filming them and chatting with Engineers, Conductors, etc.  A couple actually allowed him to visit inside and learn about the various positions.

Dave's true passion was cats.  He had every age, coloring, and human contact level from anywhere you could imagine.  He also took care of a feral colony, and he named, spayed/neutered and got needed shots for any cat he was able to catch.  He really loved all of the cats with whom he had contact.   And the feeling was mutual - at least 4 very pregnant female ferals - just walked into the house and, once cleared by his Vet, stay indoors with their kittens. 

Survivors include his companion for many years, Robin Hicks and a friend that was like family, Cherish Walsh. Along with Robin and Cherish he leaves behind friends, coworkers, and cats that he loved dearly.

His wishes were to be buried in Georgia; Memorial Services will be held there at a later date.

If you wish to donate in his memory, please help out your local cat rescue.