Francis L. Dougherty

Francis “Fran” Lee Dougherty, 78, of Conway, SC, passed away peacefully in his home on June 11, 2025. A devoted husband, father, grandfather (“Grandude”), and great-grandfather. Fran was born in Alexandria, VA, to James and Virginia Dougherty.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Carmela; his brother, James; his children, Kelli Tittle (Kevin), Kevin (Donna), and Carrie Harris (Kirk); 9 grandchildren; and 9 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Deborah Chapman (James).

Fran built a life centered on hard work and commitment to both his family and community. As the founder of Dougherty Enterprises, he spent 24 years as a self-employed maintenance contractor and landscaper, where he impacted many young adults, offering them job opportunities, guidance, and a strong example to follow. After passing the business to his son, he spent several years as a school bus driver for students with disabilities, earning the nickname “Mr. Fran the Bus Driver Man” for his kindness and reliability.

Curious and passionate, Fran approached life with an “all in” attitude. He loved tinkering with gadgets, problem-solving, and relaxing with his beloved cats. Throughout his life, Fran stayed active with many hobbies that reflected his love for learning, including photography, Tae Kwon Do, gardening, reading, watching sports and westerns, and learning about history. He also enjoyed traveling — especially to tropical places — like Hawaii, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

Fran enjoyed spending time outdoors and had a lifelong appreciation for animals and nature. He found joy in hunting, boating, and scuba diving. He also looked forward to annual family vacations to the Outer Banks of North Carolina, where his family fondly remembers Fran once spending the entire day gently caring for a tired bumblebee on the beach.

Fran’s love for his family was reflected in the small, meaningful gestures he made — painting the backyard shed pink, just because his granddaughter asked, or wearing a coin necklace every day, a cherished gift from his granddaughter. He kept the freezer stocked with Popsicles and Yoo-Hoos for his grandchildren and shared hands-on lessons, like how to steam shrimp and make jungle juice. They fondly remember the fun-filled, shark-teeth hunting, body surfing, beach days spent together, with Jimmy Buffett playing in the background.

Fran never met a stranger — his storytelling, humor, and warm teddy bear hugs made everyone feel like an old friend. His Irish stubbornness wasn’t just grit — it was a quiet strength wrapped in kindness.

Fran will be deeply missed by his family and friends, who will cherish the time they shared with him. His absence will be felt, but his memory will be carried forward by those who knew and loved him.

His family is grateful for the kindness and end-of-life care shown by Gentiva Hospice. A beach-inspired celebration of life will be held in Gainesville, Virginia, at 5608 Artemus Rd, on July 26 at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Fauquier SPCA or the Tunnels to Towers Foundation in Fran’s memory.

***Please scroll past service information to see a detailed map for Fran's celebration of life.***