Obituary of John T. Doherty

Star Ledger, 1x Tuesday, 9/15 Daily Hampshire Gazette 1x, Tues, 9/15 John T. "Jack" Doherty died quietly Thursday night, September 10, at the New Jersey Firemen's Home in the company of his family and of staff, who had become his friends. He was born in Newark, New Jersey, into a family which is notable for their colorful forthrightness, unyielding integrity and capable dedication to excellence and service, in which company he more than held his own. As a youth he followed one familial path to work on a tugboat in the Port of New York, leaving to serve as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army Air Corps during WW II. Following his military service, he gained admission to the Columbia School of Journalism. He discontinued his studies to join the Port Authority Police Department where he was a member of their championship pistol team. He then joined the City of Newark Fire Department in 1949, serving as a Captain in 5 Truck upon his promotion in 1959. He received numerous commendations for valor during his career but none was more satisfying, or apt, than the Chief's refusal of a recommendation for a commendation following a rescue with the judgment of "That's his job". In the late sixties he transitioned from Newark, New Jersey to Amherst, Massachusetts, from Fire Captain to Fire Chief. Beyond the successful leadership and management of the Fire Department on behalf of the citizens of Amherst, he will be remembered for his legislative work for the Massachusetts Fire Chiefs Association and for his contributions in the field of emergency medicine. He was a visionary supporter of EMS in the fire service and was the public safety representative for the legislative committee on EMS. He retired in 1980 to devote himself full time to the pleasure of the company of the light of his life, his wife, Terri. He worked hard. He stood tall. He did good. He got the girl He is survived by his son, Charles Doherty, grandchildren Nicole, Justin, and Wyatt, great-grandchildren Darby and Claire, his sister Patricia, and brothers Robert and Eugene. He is predeceased by his parents, Charles and Anna (Turbett) Doherty, his wife, Theresa, son John C., and brothers Charles and James. Cremation has taken place and services will be held in April 2010. Please visit www.normandean.com to light a candle in John's memory. In lieu of flowers, he would ask that you live your life to the utmost of your abilities and to your greatest satisfaction.