Carolyn Ann Dougherty

June 24, 1951 - July 23, 2025

Carolyn Ann Dougherty was born in Santa Monica, California, to Jack and Barbara Dougherty.

Raised in West Covina and later Lancaster, she was the eldest of three children. Inspired by her mother and grandmother, both educators, Carolyn pursued a lifelong passion for teaching.

After earning her degree from Fresno State in 1973, she taught for over 40 years in the Lancaster School District, specializing in early education and first grade. She believed in equity long before it was common and made sure every child felt seen, fed, and valued.

Carolyn was a gifted artist and craftswoman, known for her keen eye for color and detail. Her creativity extended from the classroom to her many hobbies, including painting, quilting, and scrapbooking. A true animal lover, she cared deeply for her cats and beloved dogs that she raised over the years.

A spirited traveler, Carolyn explored the world with her dearest friends, Jan or Nancy, visiting over 20 countries and countless U.S. states. In her recent years, Carolyn had the dream of moving to the central coast. While that dream never came to fruition, it was the enduring goal she hoped for and worked toward.

Though she had no children of her own, Carolyn touched the lives of hundreds through her teaching and her role as a devoted aunt. Carolyn lived a life of kindness, creativity, and quiet strength. She leaves behind a legacy of love, learning, and beauty. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. She is survived by her brothers Michael (Carol) and Jim, and her nieces Laura, Adrienne (Chris) and Anna, her great-nephew Jack, her aunt Ann MacMillan, cousin Debbie (Roy) and their children Zach and Cody, cousin Mary (John) and their children Tyler (Donna) and God-daughter Else. She was preceded in death by her parents Jack and Barbara Dougherty.

Carolyn's family wishes to thank everyone for their well wishes and love sent during this time.

Additionally, we thank everyone who took the time to travel and come out to remember and celebrate the life and legacy of Carolyn. In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a local educational organization or animal rescue.

A memorial service for Carolyn will be held Saturday, August 9, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Joshua Memorial Park Mortuary, 808 East Lancaster Blvd, Lancaster, CA 93535.