Barbara W. Dougherty

Barbara W. Dougherty of Virginia Beach, VA, passed away peacefully on January 8, 2026, at the age of 89.
She was born on October 17, 1936, in Washington, DC, the daughter of the late Ralph Woodside and the late Mary Evelyn Hoskins.
As a young teenager, Barbara and her family moved to Bristol, TN. She later moved to Palm Beach, FL, and eventually settled in Norfolk, VA, where she married Hugh "Larry" Dougherty, Jr., the love of her life. Together they built a happy, joyful life and later settled in Virginia Beach, Virginia. They built a home in Sandbridge, which became their beloved retirement sanctuary, where Barbara could enjoy everything she loved most - family, friends, sunshine, and life at the beach.
Affectionately known as "Momoe," Barbara was the undeniable life of the party. She loved champagne, sweets, laughter, and a good reason to celebrate - and she didn't need much of one. Her Fourth of July parties were legendary, bringing together family, friends, neighbors, and anyone lucky enough to wander in. Her smile lit up a room, she always dressed the part, and she never missed an opportunity to raise a glass in celebration. She kept up with fashion, loved being bright and bold, and could easily be both the belle of the ball and the most gracious host in the room.
Barbara adored the beach - long walks, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the simple pleasure of being near the water. Above all else, she fiercely loved her family. Her children and grandchildren were, in her words, absolutely "perfect," and she made sure they knew it every chance she got. She welcomed everyone into her home as family, which is why "Momoe" wasn't just a name used by her grandchildren, but by friends of friends who quickly became her people.
When her time came, Barbara passed quickly and quietly, just as she lived - with grace. While she may no longer be with us, there is no doubt she will be looking down from heaven, champagne in hand, making sure we are all living well, loving each other, and - most importantly - parking correctly in her driveway.
Barbara was predeceased by her husband, Hugh Larry Dougherty, Jr.; her stepdaughter, Deborah York; and her great-granddaughter, Sammi Knaub. She is survived by her sister, Mary Evelyn Holloman; her daughter, Scarlett Cadena (Chris); her sons, Donald Thone Jr. (Kimberly) and Guy Dougherty (Deidre); her stepdaughters, Katherine Dougherty and Carey Connors (Hap); 12 grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, January 16, 2026, at H.D. Oliver Funeral Apartments 2002 Laskin Road, Virginia Beach, VA. Viewing will be at 1:00, service starts at 2:00. A private burial will take place directly after at Forest Lawn Cemetery. A reception will be held that evening at the Cadena home.
The family would like to express special thanks to Suzie for the loving care she provided to Barbara over the last few years of her life. Please keep Barbara's family in your prayers - and in true Momoe fashion, raise a glass of champagne and enjoy something sweet in her honor.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Sandbridge Fire and Rescue.