Fr. Damien Dougherty, O.F.M.

Fr. Damien Dougherty, 73, passed away on Saturday, May 14, 2022. Born Robert W. Dougherty on December 16, 1948 in Bayonne, NJ. He attended Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of Newark, NJ. He received his Masters Degree in Washington, DC and his Doctorate in Rome, Italy. Father Damien entered the Franciscan Commissariat of the Holy Land and was ordained a Priest in 1975. He spent many years working at the General Curia in Rome and teaching at various universities. He was fluent in many languages. In 1986, Father Damien was appointed a Pastor in Cairo, Egypt for 2 years before returning to the United States for teaching and preaching Missionaries.

In 1995, Father Damien was called to move from the Commissariat of the Holy Land to join the Franciscan Sacred Heart Province here in Saint Louis. He continued preaching retreats throughout the USA and Europe. He also taught at various seminaries including Kenrick School of Theology, the Paul VI Institute, and the Permanent Diaconate Formation Program here in Saint Louis. Father Damien also served as Chaplain at St. Anthony's Hospital in Alton, IL and instructor with the Sisters of the Saint Francis of the Martyrs of Saint George. More recently, he lived at Saint Anthony's Friary in South Saint Louis and served as Chaplain at Saint Alexius Hospital.

Father Damien had a passion in his Ministry of Education to his last days. He faced many physical challenges during the past years and continued his teaching online. Many people were very moved by his enthusiasm in teaching and his pastoral care for each student.

For all that would like to offer a tribute to his life-he requests that gifts be given to Franciscan Charities 3140 Meramec St., St. Louis, MO 63118

SERVICES: Memorial Mass 11am Wednesday, June 1, 2022 at Saint Anthony of Padua Catholic Church 3140 Meramec Street 63118. A brief gathering will start at 10am until time of Mass. Interment will be in Sts. Peter & Paul Cemetery with committal services conducted by the Franciscans.