Thomas J. Dougherty, Jr.

Thomas J. “Doc” Dougherty, Jr., age 69, of Glenolden, PA, passed away on November 27, 2025. Born in Philadelphia, PA, he was the son of the late Roseanna (nee Youngkin) and Thomas J. Dougherty, Sr.

Doc dedicated his life not only to his own passions, but also to nurturing the minds and spirits of countless students throughout his distinguished career as a school teacher at Academy Park High School. A graduate of West Catholic High School for Boys in 1974, Doc demonstrated an early affinity for athletics, playing basketball with fervor and dedication. He continued to immerse himself in the sport during his studies at the Philadelphia College of Textiles and Science, nurturing his love for basketball that defined much of his life. An avid basketball enthusiast, he not only reveled in the excitement of the game, but also shared his passion with the next generation. Doc dedicated many years to coaching basketball at St. John Neumann High School, Academy Park High School, Sun Valley High School, AAU for his daughter Kelly, Chichester, and Strath Haven High School, where his influence shaped the lives of many young athletes. Let’s not forget his many years coaching CYO football as well in Southwest Philly at St. Clement throughout the 70s, 80s, and 90s.

Beyond the arena of education and athletics, Doc held a deep-rooted fondness for Philadelphia’s sports culture, often cheering for his beloved teams with unwavering loyalty and sharing this love with his family. His enthusiasm extended beyond academic and athletic realms; he served as the former owner of TD's Hug-A-Mug Bar, a testament to his vibrant persona and ability to bring people together through community spaces.

Doc was the beloved husband of 46 years to Lynn Dougherty (nee Schell); loving father of Kristin M. DiGiacomo (Joseph), Thomas J. Dougherty, III, and Kelly M. Blakely (Keenan); adoring grandfather of Sophia, Madison, and Jordan; caring brother of Annie Mitchell, Michael Dougherty, Billy Hughes, and Sissy Hughes.

Family and friends are invited to Doc’s Viewing 9:30-11:00 AM on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at St. Eugene Church, 200 S. Oak Ave, Primos, PA 19018, followed by his Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM. Interment Private.

Doc wouldn't want a room full of suits, please join us in wearing casual Philadelphia sports gear as we gather to remember him.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Doc’s name to Coaches vs. Cancer, PO Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741, donate.cancer.org/coachesvscancer, would be appreciated. The Coaches vs. Cancer (CvC) program is a nationwide collaboration between the American Cancer Society and the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC).