Kenneth Francis Doherty

Kenneth Francis Doherty, 71, passed away peacefully on September 16, 2025 at his home in Wilmington, North Carolina after struggling for a number of years with a chronic illness. He was born in Lowell, Massachusetts on February 24, 1954 to Rita Sullivan Doherty and Joseph Doherty. He attended Wakefield High School followed by proud service in the U.S. Air Force. He was an avid golfer fostered by working at a golf course in his younger years. He excelled in all athletic activities including hockey and softball. His football career was cut short when he broke his collarbone at the team's first game.

He met his wife of 46 years Dolores (Dee) Hannafin Doherty in Boston., who was smitten by his good looks, winning smile, and generosity. After a brief stay in California where the two were married in La Jolla Beach, they moved to Canaan, Connecticut, home of his wife's parents. Ken and Dee moved to Wilmington, North Carolina in 1993, where he established a successful business as a paint contractor until his retirement.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Stephen. Ken is survived by his wife, Dolores (Dee) Hannafin Doherty, sister-in-law, Sandy Hannafin Ettinger, brother-in-law, Laurence Hannafin and wife Sally Carr Hannafin, sister and brother-in-law Elaine and Bill Clark, brother and sister-in-law, Brian and Liz Doherty, brother William Doherty, nieces Heather Wilks, Kristen Dean, and Carolyn Hyde and nephews William (Hobie) Clark and Christopher Doherty. Also, several great-nieces and cousins on both the Doherty and Sullivan side of the family.

Many thanks to the caring staff of Cape Fear Hospice for all of their help in his final weeks.

Donations in his name can be made to: Paws4people Foundation, 5000 Transformation Lane, Castle Hayne, NC 28429. Phone number: 888-762-7297