Obituary of Richard Lee Dougherty

Richard Lee Dougherty, 91, died Wednesday, November 14th, 2018 in Melbourne, Fl, after a stroke. Richard leaves Geraldine Shamus Dougherty – his sidekick, his muse, his beloved wife of 63 years; his brother Don (Irene) Dougherty of Sparta, TN; numerous nieces, nephews and friends to mourn his passing. He was born in Berkley, Michigan. He graduated from Berkley High School. He worked for Copco Industries in Detroit after graduation from high school. It was there he met Geri. Love at first sight. Richard was a gifted artist. Geri encouraged him to attend art school. He did, and after a few years of testing the waters, took the leap of faith and devoted the rest of his life to all things art. Richard travelled to art shows throughout the eastern United States. Early in his career his home base was Michigan – he was invited to prestigious shows around the state. He was awarded best of show many times during the ensuing years. He and Geri fell in love with Florida early in their marriage. They honeymooned on Anna Maria Island. In 1972 they took a second leap of faith and moved to Palm Bay and never regretted it. For years Richard travelled between Michigan and Florida and the Carolinas to various art shows in the big green van he and Geri dubbed the Green Goose – Miami, Palm Beach, Hilton Head, Lansing, Vero Beach, Amelia Island and even Charlotte Amalie, USVI. Geri was always by his side. His work has been enjoyed and purchased by people from all over the world. Richard joined the Sebastian River Art Club soon after his move to Florida. He was president of the club in 1996 – 1997. He learned to repair and restore art through the years. He taught classes and workshops throughout his career as well. Richard never stopped learning, teaching and encouraging others to pursue their own dreams of being ‘an artist’. He will be missed by all who knew him. The family expresses their thanks to the staff at Hibiscus Court Assisted Living Facility and Vitas Hospice of Melbourne, FL for their loving care.