Madison's John Dougherty, Devoted Educator, Dies At 88

MADISON, NJ - John M. Dougherty, 88, of Madison, formerly of Philadelphia, and later Jenkintown, Pa., passed away peacefully on Friday, April 24, at the age of 88, according to his family.

Beloved husband of Harriett (née Sernoff), father of Rhonda Weaver (Ken) of Old Hickory, Tenn., Soni (Josh Heltzer) of Madison, and Michael (Kerri) of Bethlehem, Pa., John, lovingly known as Poppop, also leaves behind nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

The arrival of his youngest great-granddaughter, Norah, in July, made the family four generations strong in Madison.

Passionate about classical music, opera, books and movies, John spent his professional life in education as a devoted teacher, principal, and educational consultant including 25 years of service at the NJ Department of Education in Trenton where he retired as Director of Social Studies.

John will be forever in our hearts. Services are private. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to Madison Volunteer Ambulance Corps, 29 Prospect St, Madison, NJ.