Denny Doherty

Denny Doherty

Denny Doherty Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jan. 19, 2007.
MISSISSAUGA, Ont. (AP) - Denny Doherty, one-quarter of the 1960s folk-rock group the Mamas and the Papas, known for their soaring harmony on hits like "California Dreamin'" and "Monday, Monday," died Friday at 66.

His sister Frances Arnold said the singer-songwriter died at his home in Mississauga, a city just west of Toronto, after a short illness. He had suffered kidney problems following surgery last month and had been put on dialysis, Arnold said.

The group burst on the national scene in 1966 with the top 10 smash "California Dreamin'." The Mamas and the Papas broke new ground by having women and men in one group at a time when most singing groups were unisex. John Phillips, the group's chief songwriter; his wife, Michelle; and another female vocalist, Cass Elliot, teamed with Doherty.

"Monday, Monday" hit No. 1 on the charts and won the band a Grammy for best contemporary group performance. Among the group's other songs were "I Saw Her Again Last Night," "Go Where You Wanna Go," "Dancing Bear," and versions of "I Call Your Name" and "Dedicated to the One I Love."

"What made the group special was their haunting and sumptuous harmony singing," according to "The Rolling Stone Illustrated History of Rock & Roll."

"Everybody used to think that John Phillips, who wrote the songs, was also the main voice of the group, but it wasn't - it was the angelic voice of Denny Doherty," said Larry Leblanc, Canadian editor of Billboard Magazine. "He was often overlooked but it was really his voice that carried the group."

In 1998, the Mamas and the Papas were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

The group's catchy sound was a blend of '60s upbeat pop and the folk music that had surged in popularity early in the decade. The song "Creeque Alley" told the story of their formation amid the musical ferment of the folk scene; among the other stars-to-be mentioned in its lyrics were members of the Lovin' Spoonful and the Byrds.

Folk superstars Peter, Paul and Mary paid their own tribute to the Mamas and the Papas with their humorous 1967 hit "I Dig Rock and Roll Music."

But the group's heyday was brief and it disbanded in 1968 following John and Michelle Phillips' divorce. The members re-formed in 1971 for the album "People Like Us," but all hope for a reunion ended in 1974 when the 32-year-old Elliot suffered a fatal heart attack in London.

Phillips briefly re-formed the group in 1982 with Doherty, Phillips' actress daughter, Mackenzie, and Elaine "Spanky" McFarlane. The foursome toured playing oldies and new Phillips originals.

In 2003, Doherty was co-author and performer in an off-Broadway show called "Dream a Little Dream: The Mamas and the Papas Musical." It traced the band's early years, its dizzying fame and breakup amid drugs and alcohol and an affair between Doherty and Michelle Phillips.

"There's a part of this thing that if I'm not careful, I'd be just a blob on the stage crying my guts out," Doherty told The Associated Press at the time. "Everybody knows about death and dying and sadness, so it's an exercise in staying in the moment and not getting maudlin about your friends dying."

John Phillips died in 2001 at 65.

The Halifax-born Doherty started his music career in Montreal in 1960 as the co-founder of the Colonials, which later became the Halifax Three.

Doherty made a solo album in 1974 and achieved a bit of immortality by both playing the Harbormaster and voicing all the characters for the children's TV series "Theodore Tugboat."

Doherty, who was married twice, is survived by three children, John, Emberly and Jessica; three sisters; and a brother. Both of his wives predeceased him.


Copyright © 2007 The Associated Press


Related articles:

Read more about Denny Doherty and his music

Sign Denny Doherty's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

January 22, 2022

Someone posted to the memorial.

November 11, 2018

Steven Thorne posted to the memorial.

November 4, 2017

Wendy Palmer posted to the memorial.

164 Entries

January 22, 2022

It's been 15 years now since we lost Denny Doherty. An extraordinary actor, singer, songwriter, film and television star; he is still loved and missed today. Our hearts and prayers go out to his family, and we will continue to try to keep his memory alive always. You brought love and joy to all our lives. Rest In Peace, sweet Angel.

Steven Thorne

November 11, 2018

For all the joy you gave my life, thank you, Denny.

Wendy Palmer

November 4, 2017

TO DENNY'S FAMILY,
The world lost an incredibly sensitive, talented, and loving man, when it lost Denny. He helped so very many people along the path of his life, and through his music. Listening to him and his music has helped me to lose 40 pounds, and with his continued help, I'll get to my goal.
I pray for Denny and your family daily. Know now, he is happy, pain-free, and ... no doubt is helping all who come his way up in Heaven! :)

Penny Ronning

December 11, 2016

The gifts you gave the world through your voice and the music you helped create continue to impact my life to this day -- THANK YOU! Thank you so very much!

Brett

November 7, 2016

Thanks for the great music and the ability to travel back to 1966 by just putting your music on Denny !

Rest in Peace and GOD BLESS YOU !

Denny Doherty taken well before his time !

kate Chesser

November 29, 2015

Wow, I remember getting the "45" Monday, Monday for my birthday 3 times because everyone knew how much I loved the group.
I'm saddened to learn of Denny's death at such a young age, he was truly a wonderful part of my teen years.

God Bless.

August 22, 2015

I love all of you and was happy to see your show on broadway. Love KF

Harry Simpson

January 19, 2015

Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.

September 1, 2014

An amazing memory in my childhood - I hope you realize what an impact you made on my life ...and I LOVE Mama CASS - thank you - love, Toni

Solitarieone

January 2, 2014

Always thought you were the best! Rest in peace, dear Denny, and sing with the Rock and Roll Heaven band. You will be remembered.

Pat Tyson

May 1, 2013

Denny - I had the good fortune to sit behind you during a production of "Mrs. Robinson" in Beverly Hills about 10 years ago. During the intermission I approached you and you were as nice as could be. I felt as if I had known you my entire life. Thanks for being a gentleman and not dashing my dream of meeting you. Thank you too for your lilting voice; truly the signature of a generation. You will never be forgotten, I can assure you of that. God Bless.

Christopher Hayward

December 30, 2012

What wonderful songs he sang,will never forget him

Jim Feith

September 17, 2012

Hi Denny, to your family, so sorry for your passing and from all of us who are your fans, thankyou for the talent you shared with us and for making our days a nicer place with your songs.
God Bless You Denny and be safe and well in heaven!!!

Cass. Harnish

July 7, 2012

Denny. I wrote to you but for got to tell ya the song my parents named me with was creeqe alley now every morning I play this song. Thanks again. The. Mama's and the. Papa's. For. The music. Cass Harnish. Again

Cass Harnish

July 7, 2012

Denny My name is Cass. Harnish. I listen to your music since I was a wee girl. When I was born my parents named. Me after Mama Cass when I found that out later on in life I was proud I know listen to the group every min of the day. God rest Denny. I know you are looking down on your family as well as your.Fans. I'm proud to be named after her. It's an honour. To me.

Delores Reynolds

July 7, 2012

Your angelic voice will always be with all. Who knew you and the mama's and the papa's . To. Your family may God bring you peace during this time We all loved Denny he was a beautifull man he will remain in our hearts and thoughts and prayers. God rest

Angela Joyce

August 26, 2011

My mom, my grandfather and I used to talk to Mr. Doherty (Denny) when they had their coffee at Meadowvale Town Centre at the Second Cup. I was only a little girl but I remember he and my family sharing a table and talking about the current events. Such a humble man he was! I knew he was somebody famous but I never got into 'The Mamas and the Papas' until I was in my teens. I vaguely remember some conversation about how learning music is good for the mind...perhaps this is part of the reason why I am more apt to learn the guitar. I know his spirit is all around his family and the people who so loved him. I only wish I knew him better. From what my mom and grandpa said, he was a gracious man and it seems that he would chat with anyone. Blessings! -Angela Joyce

April 3, 2010

For Denny...one-quarter of the 1960s folk-rock group the Mamas and the Papas, known for their soaring harmony on hits like "California Dreamin'" and "Monday, Monday.

WEEP NOT FOR ME


Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.

Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.

I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.

Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.

Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.

Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.


© Joe Fazio
~
[email protected] /Joe Fazio,
Beverly Hills, California

Ray Cool

June 7, 2009

The greats are slowly going. I loved them too. Remember how we would sing these tunes at home in Timmins. They inspired me ti sing. I now have memorized about 100 of Dylan's songs, even the 10 minute ones and I am doing radio commercials, au francais.

G Vandy

February 1, 2009

RIP Denny. I loved the Mammas & pappas and lived just around the corner from Denny in Mississauga in the early to mid 90's

Amanda Goris

April 29, 2008

The Momma's & the Poppa's Rock!!!!
I would have loved to see them performe any day!!

Jessie Doherty Woods

November 29, 2007

Today is your birthday

Today is your birthday
without candles and cake.
And since you are not with us,
we will not celebrate.
We cannot send you a birthday card,
your hands we cannot touch.
So we ask God to give a message
to the one we love so much.
And grant us one wish
and make it come true.
To have His choir of Angels sing
Happy Birthday to you.

Dolores V. Wilson

September 25, 2007

I remember the Mama's & The Poppa's came out in the 60's i was about 5 or 6 years old apperciated their good music then and now that i'm 50 years old alot of memories in their music and still enjoy listening to them.Sing With Angels in Heaven . God Bless Dolores Wilson

Karen Anne Harvey

March 18, 2007

I spent many wonderful times with Denny at his house on Appian Way and with Linda Woodward. Denny will be so missed by many but thankfully we can still listen to his music and enjoy our memories. His daughter Jessica has opened her heart to so many of us and made us a part of her life now that her father has passed and I am very grateful for that kindness.

Daniel Brian Falgerho

March 18, 2007

We've lost not just a great voice and a talented artist but also a great man and a lovable and generous friend who lived his life with a great deal of grace and style. Denny once gave me his gold chain to pawn so I could get an apartment (yes, I returned it) and another time showed up with a van to help me move. A rare kind of friend. Everyone who Denny loved Denny and misses him.

Liz Szilbereisz

March 12, 2007

I remember sitting in a diner on Park Avenue in Montreal and hearing "Monday Monday" and "California Dreaming". My friend and I just looked at each other and knew we were hearing something very special. It's a moment I'll always remember. Denny, you were the best.

Lee Ann Wheeler

February 24, 2007

To Denny's family:
Thank you for sharing Denny with us (his fans) over the years. It is so nice to read the comments from those who knew him that the best male voice ever belonged to such a wonderful and down to earth person. I have loved his music since I was a girl in the 60's; it will live on in the hearts of all of us who were touched by him. I hope Denny knew how much he was loved and admired. Sincerest Sympathies to his family on your great loss.

Susan Harrington

February 23, 2007

Denny's death was such a shock to me, as John's was before his, and Cass's all those years ago. To Denny's family: Remember, as you and your loved ones and the rest of us are saying, “There he goes,” think about those on the other side who are rejoicing, “Here he comes!” Long live Denny the Dancing Bear.

Patty McWhirter

February 7, 2007

Jessica,

We will miss your dad, Denny, and his gentle yet strong voice. But we were blessed to enjoy his wonderful talent and the words he and your mom, Linda, left with us...

I’ll sing my yesterdays to you, those memories will stay with you.
All your tears will fall behind, leave them for the love you’ll find.

Thinking of tomorrow I can’t help but feel with certainty
that you will find within yourself the happiness you want to be.

I can’t bring these things to you, that’s something only you can do.
All your tears will fall behind, leave them for the love you’ll find.

God bless Denny and your family.

Peace & love,
Patty & Gary McWhirter

McCarthy & Baldwin Family

February 5, 2007

My deepest sympathy is expressed to the Doherty family. We are friends with his daughter Jessica, her husband Michael and children. I can tell you that he was a wonderful father and grandfather. The music world will miss him and his contribution to the industry will always be cherished.

David Grey ([email protected])

February 5, 2007

To Denny’s family and friends,

In this time of loss I do hope it is a comfort to you to know that there are so many of us to whom Denny was a like good friend we had never met. His spirit reached out through his voice and resonated within us. He made magic with his friends. He made the world a better place. We miss him too.

L S

February 3, 2007

I would of loved to have met you Denny, i did see you once, here in Halifax, coming out of a store on Quinpool Road, i should of said something, will miss you.....

Sheila Baker

February 3, 2007

Wow! I can't believe such a large part of my teen years have passed. I still sing along with all those songs made so eternally popular by the MAMA's and PAPA's. Jessica please accept our deepest sympathy. We love you.
Aunt Sheila and Uncle Mel Baker

Lieutenant Amaury Murgado

February 3, 2007

You once told me to keep my powder dry...I have. I will miss you for many reasons. The biggest is you made time for me and treated me as if you had known me all your life. See you at the next level.

Bill De Walt

February 3, 2007

Jess,
You know how much I thought of your Dad. He is the BEST!!!

Helen Marketti

February 3, 2007

Thank you, Denny for your beautiful voice, inspiration and making me laugh. Watch over all of us who love you...each in our own way...each with our own reasons.

Villette Rampalle

February 3, 2007

I have appreciated the music Denny Doherty made, and his wonderful spirit that has given life to so many projects in his career...
His recordings of music and drama will go on. May his wonderful spirit live on through his family and friends.

Sandy Granger

February 3, 2007

It is hard to say a fianl goodbye to someone who has been a part of my
life for over forty years. I had the honor of meeting Denny a few times during that span. Those times will always be very special memories. One of my best memories will be talking with Denny over the telephone during the writing of "Go Where You Wanna Go" (by Mathew Greenwald, 2002). Denny
always had time to help others. One terrific guy!

Bill Cermak

February 2, 2007

I had the pleasure of seeing and meeting Denny a couple of times and was always inspired by his kindness and humor. The memories and songs that he leaves behind will continue to inspire generations, I just know it. Thank You, Denny.

Don Waterfill

February 2, 2007

Jessica, I was a fan of your Dad that was my era. I didn't realize however that Denny was your dad until Linda told me. Our prayers are with you, and I want you to know that you have a family here at New Hope. We love you in the Lord
Pastor Don

Linda Hunt

February 2, 2007

Jessica, I loved the Mama's and Papa's - their sound and music before I ever dreamed my little boy would some day be your husband. Denny will be missed by everyone who was touched by his life. We love you .... Linda & Bill

Rev. Bobby Woods

February 2, 2007

What struck me most about Denny was his down to earth atittude. After spending hours talking with him, I saw a man who understood his place in history but was still able to be a normal grandpa. I'm looking forward to hearing that voice again in the heavenly choir.

Bruce Green

February 2, 2007

I really enjoyed meeting Denny. Those times at your home, Jessica were great fun. He will be missed.

Che Heron

February 2, 2007

I am so sorry, I did not get to see Dream a little Dream. I always loved talking to Denny on the phone because he had a way of making me smile. The last time I saw Denny was in Halifax and I remember it like it was yesterday. I will never forget him and he will always be remembered in my home. My five year old son is always asking me to play Creeque Alley that is his favorite. My heart goes out to Jessica, John and Emberly.

Chris Foote

February 2, 2007

Denny was truly the finest voice of our time, and my personal inspiration as a singer.

He will be greatly missed and always remembered.

Dan Kirouac

February 1, 2007

When they say Denny was a real, sincere, down-to-earth person, trust me....those aren't just token words. Denny opened up my eyes and my world to quality singing, folk music, and people who would have a spiritual impact on me for the rest of my life. His family are wonderful people, too....may the music and the man live on.

maggie o'brien

February 1, 2007

denny doherty was the best voice ever put on record the voice of a angel,to he family i am so sorry for your lost. i am sure at this time you will find suport and love.
my heart goes out to you.

the past few week for us fans have been full of heart ach. i wrote the words for you below.

hugs to you all maggie

The moon was still, the night air was soft
But inside I felt so lost
I miss that soft hand
That loving hug
The laughter in the air



The rocky road of life we live
And we give all that we can give
I miss the tales you told
I miss the sound of your voice
I am lost with out your love
On the inside the thunder and lighting hits
And digs a hold so big, I think I could loss control of it


But the healing winds I am sure will come
A word can mean so much
Times will fly
That I know
We have no control
Of those that died
We weep our heart out, until it seems
We cry a river of tears
And the years will come
But I know deep in my heart
The love I have for you will never leave me no matter what,
I will love you
Forever and ever and a bit more

margaret woodhams -obrien

G. Snow

February 1, 2007

I grew up listening to and loving the mamas and papas, my kids grew up watching theodore tugboat, I am proud to be a fellow maritimer, thanks Denny!!

Diana Doherty-Wilson

February 1, 2007

Denny Doherty, I wonderful man and a gentle uncle to me. Denny was one of a kind and was always willing to help if asked. Denny had many accomplishments but his true accomplishment was being Denny and keeping true to who he was even with fame. Denny will be greatly missed by many including me.

David Six

February 1, 2007

Tops of my list of regrets - never meeting Denny Doherty (or seeing him in concert). It is due to his voice that I was first California Dreamin'. So powerful a voice that I moved from Wisconsin to California when I was 22. I grew to love all the music he ever made, and am grateful to have a personalized picture of him along with all his great songs. I am sad for what might have been, but will only appreciate more what is because of Denny.

Richard Campbell

February 1, 2007

It has been a sad several days since the news of Denny's passing away. I've been collecting my own thoughts and have been praying for his children and siblings and other friends during this week of goodbyes and reminiscing. While this is an heartening part of the grieving process, I know it is also demanding emotionally and physically. Yet, when you are mourning, there is a strange sense in that's what you want to do or need to do.
Denny would not have been one for too much bereavement. When Linda died it was with music and memories that he and others said their farewells. I think the tentatively planned upcoming musical tributes to him in Toronto and perhaps Halifax and Los Angeles would be Denny's thing.

"I ran away with the circus" is how Denny once described himself to me about twenty five years ago. That image has always stuck in my mind. If you consider his growing up days in Halifax, his working in the pawn shop there, his leaving Nova Scotia with The Colonials/Halifax Three and ulitmately The Mamas and Papas years and afterwards up on Appian Way you get a glimpse of what a whirl it was for him. He always seemed bemused and amused by it.

Being a father and a husband, and being a friend were as important to Denny as anything he achieved professionally. His high value for honesty and his innate sense of what was fair were part of him every day.

He was a faithful and true friend to me and just a few weeks ago took an especial heartfelt interest in me and my personal life when we had one of our many periodic phone visits.

Michelle called him a "blithe spirit" once, and that's the truth as well. Denny was merry and shrewd all in the same man. His charm captivated you as he told you a story or sang you a song.

These words from his 1970 song Gathering the Words seem to fit as I try to gather the words to express how much I'll miss him.

I'll sing my yesterdays to you
These memories will stay with you
All your tears will fall behind

Love and prayers-Richard Campbell

betty-ann power-arbour

January 28, 2007

california dreamin ..monday monday ..that was a kid from the north end ..and he was a moma & papa..and theodore tugboat...what a ride

Hugh (Hoodie) Rowlings

January 28, 2007

From the time I was small growing up in Halifax Denny Doherty was a hero of mine. Seeing him for the first time on the Ed Sullivan show being introduced by Sullivan, was a thrill which I have never forgotten. To hear the Mamas and Papas mention Halifax in the song (I think it was Dancin' In the Street)made me so proud.I was never lucky enough to actually meet Denny and while I have spent the last thirty years in Northern Newfoundland I have continued to follow his career as though he were not just a friend but a member of the family. My sympathies to his family and friends and may God Bless you all. Denny's music will continue to touch people's lives in special ways.

kelley allen

January 27, 2007

What a beautiful legacy this man and his friends left us.Their words and harmonies will always sound as sweet as the first time i heard them. Denny, give Cass a hug for me.

Kelley Allen
London, England

PhillyJo Shinbone

January 27, 2007

I am sorry to hear of the passing of our beloved fellow brother in music.
Mr. Doherty had a gift for making everyone in the room feel as though he was playing directly to them.
He will surely be missed.

Chris Ang

January 27, 2007

May Denny be California Dreaming right up there in heaven!

Treesje Ang

January 27, 2007

God bless him and his angelic singing voice! May the mamas and the papas live on forever more!

Lisa B

January 27, 2007

I was shocked today to learn of the passing of Denny Doherty. Since childhood, I loved his voice and the music of the Mamas and the Papas. While saddened by his passing, I'm somehow comforted that he is now reunited with his old friends, Cass and John.

My sincere sympathy to the family and friends he left behind.

dane McCaffery

January 25, 2007

I always loved your music...you once graciously signed an album for me...I knew your nephew Rob featherstone (Bobby)..he taught me so much ..and so did you

Rain Critz

January 24, 2007

Your passing was a shock to me. I'm so sorry you were taken too soon. I was a big fan and still a big fan. You guys were Brilliant!! your songs will never ever die. God bless you and your family.

Rain~

Camille Lestage Buie

January 24, 2007

What a wonderful sound Denny was a part of, and that he leaves behind for us to always enjoy.

Jeanne Crutcher

January 24, 2007

Another wonderful master of music to enter the world of Rock and Roll Heaven, your songs and sounds will always have a place in our hearts. Never forgotten............

SUSAN OZIAS

January 24, 2007

MY TEEN YEARS WOULDN'T OF BEEN THE SAME WITH OUT THIS WONDERFUL GROUP!
STILL LOVE PLAYING THERE MUSIC AT AGE 57 NOW! THE 60'S WERE GREAT WITH SOOOO MANY GOOD MUSIC GROUPS AND SOLO'S TOO! ALOT OF REAL GOOD MUSIC AND MADE ONE FALL IN LOVE EASIER, HA! THANKS' FOR THE MEMORIES AS BOB HOPE USED TO SING!AMEN! LOVE YOU ALWAYS & FOREVER...
SUSAN OF K.CITY

david mitchell

January 24, 2007

sorry for your loss.

Susan Navarro

January 24, 2007

My thoughts and prayers to the family. It seems ironic that two days after it snowed in Malibu, and I heard the local radio station playing "California Dreamin'" the next thing to follow was to hear of the passing of Denny. He will always be in your hearts as his music will always be in our ears, hearts and minds.
God Bless,
S.P. Navarro

renee jacobs

January 24, 2007

It is sad that a pioneer of folk rock pasted so young I will always remember the great tunes the mamas and papas had

Jeanette Covert

January 24, 2007

To the family of Denny Doherty with sympathy.Still listen to California Dreamin to this very day.Is great music.Back when life was so simple.God Bless.

Gene Hahn

January 24, 2007

Thank you for the music you created within which you will live forever. The Mamas and the Papas are as popular today as they were 40 years ago.

jim willner

January 24, 2007

the music i will never forget!
may eternal light shine upon you!
prayers to you and your family.

carl gordon

January 24, 2007

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

Dorthey Johnson

January 24, 2007

My sympathy to the family. I hope you can take consulation in the fact that he will never be forgotten. He will always live on in the music that helped to shape a generation. It is still powerful and loved by all generations of people in all walks of life to this day.

Catharine Emberly

January 24, 2007

To my cousins, my prayers and thoughts are with you. I remember the good times when George, Kay, Margie and I went to visit when we were in Nova Scotia over summer holidays. "To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord." Denny is in loving arms. Be kind to yourself.

Bill Barry

January 24, 2007

Thank you Denny for sharing your music that helped shape a generation and a culture, you will be always missed and always remembered by many...God Bless

Sheldon Johnson

January 24, 2007

Thanks Denny: for sharing your gift of music with the rest of us. You'll always be in the hearts of those who know you. You will be greatly Missed.

PATRICIA & VICTOR HUNTER

January 24, 2007

TO THE DOHERTY FAMILY: OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHIES TO YOU ALL. HE IS GONE, BUT WON'T SOON BE FORGOTTEN. THE MAMA'S & PAPA'S WERE TRULY A MELODIOUS INSPIRATION DURING SOME VERY TRYING TIMES. GOD BE WITH YOU ALL IN YOUR TIME OF SORROW. REMEMBER THE 'GOOD TIMES' YOU SHARED & HE WILL ALWAYS BE WITH YOU IN YOUR HEART.

Deanna Kerr

January 24, 2007

Fond memories fill my mind when I listen to the music you made....such a treat. My hearfelt prayers are with your family at this time.

Marcia Harstad

January 24, 2007

I agree, Your voice will be missed.

Marcia Harstad

William & Barbara Simon

January 23, 2007

Our thoughts go out to Denny's family and to all that he touched throughout the years.

Ron Yancey

January 23, 2007

Thank you so much for the joy you brought us.We love you so.God keep and bless the family.Your music will live forever.

Dan Emerson

January 23, 2007

Many thanks Denny! You made a fine Papa in concert with your superb teammates; the M and P's remarkable vibes inspired me and countless members of my generation to 'go west', helped make California an essential stop on the path to adulthood. Enjoy your life revue (and review), suspect you will receive much joy from it. Wherever you are, keep the faith, keep up the good works...

Kathy V. H.

January 23, 2007

May God Bless your family, and may God comfort them in this trying time. The Mama's and Papa's truelly had a impact on my life, with all the beautiful music that was written and preformed. Your music will carry on through history, Denny. You are Home now, and at peace. God has you in His Arms, with His love surrounding you.

pat wassmann

January 23, 2007

your with the best now say hello to mama,
make your own kind of music.
(creeque Denny you know there aren;t many who can sing the way you dooooo/ remember ater every song you pass the hat.
no more working for a penny)
GOD the music was sooooooooo good
you will be misssssssss
just like mama.
now you and mama can play (your own kind of music)

jim phillips

January 23, 2007

God bless you Denny, Heaven's got another wonderful recording artist to join in the bands of those before. Rest peacefully.

Karen

January 23, 2007

Life never ends when your music is forever, thankyou for many gifted songs.

Sandy D

January 23, 2007

I grew up on the Moma's & Papa's music. I am so sorry for the loss. I know Heaven will be waiting - and so will the rest of your gang.

Andy Walters

January 23, 2007

The sky is truly grey with your passing.

January 23, 2007

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Sue G.

January 23, 2007

One of the most talented people of a generation, one of my favorite tenors. Blessings to all who were fortunate enough to have heard him!

Debbie Smith

January 23, 2007

The music died but not the memories. Your songs will be played forever, they will always live on. Rest in peace & God Bless

Barbara Wilson

January 23, 2007

Denny, you will be missed, we loved the Mamas and Papas and our prayers are with your family.

Barbara Wilson

January 23, 2007

Denny, you will be missed, may your music with the Mama and Papa's live on. Our prayers are with your family..

Terri

January 23, 2007

To the Doherty Family, I was fortunate enough to see Denny's show last April in Cleveland from the fourth row! I have always been a huge fan of the Mama's and Papa's and will continue to be. Their story is one of the greatest in the history of Rock and Roll.

Tamra Silvestre

January 23, 2007

You will be missed.

Maria Ruggiero

January 23, 2007

My sincerest condolences to Denny Doherty's family. Denny's beautiful voice and musical talent touched so many lives.

Rest in Peace, Denny. You will be greatly missed.

Jim Hill

January 23, 2007

The sounds the four of you generated were nothing short of phenominal. Always in our hearts and in our memories. God bless, Denny.

Jordan Lukens

January 23, 2007

So sorry for your loss and the world's loss. Our prayers are with you.

Ann

January 22, 2007

Cass, John and now Denny....Your music was your "dream" & surely it will live on for years and years to come. My heart goes out to your Family and friends and fans at this most difficult time. May DREAMIN' live on forever. Thanks for the music and memories......
THOU GOESTH!!!!!!

Grezony Caraballo

January 22, 2007

In deepest sympathy for your lost, Doherty Family and Friends. The sweet sounds of the past are leaving us with a void. Hopefully, God's angels can appreciate the band.

Showing 1 - 100 of 164 results

Make a Donation
in Denny Doherty's name

How to support Denny's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Denny Doherty's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sponsored

Sign Denny Doherty's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

January 22, 2022

Someone posted to the memorial.

November 11, 2018

Steven Thorne posted to the memorial.

November 4, 2017

Wendy Palmer posted to the memorial.