Obituary of Joseph M. Dougherty

Joseph M. Dougherty “Joe”, 43, passed away unexpectedly on July 2, 2024, leaving his family, friends, and colleagues heartbroken.  He will be remembered for his boundless generosity, his infectious enthusiasm, and the love he shared with everyone in his life.

Joe was born in Albany, NY, raised in Voorheesville, and went on to graduate from Hamilton College.  While in school, he enjoyed his time working at Concord Pools, building lasting friendships and taking advantage of his employee discount for his parents.  Joe went on to pursue his passion for law at Albany Law School, laying the foundation for a distinguished legal career.  He began his professional journey at Hinman Straub in Albany where he made Principal before moving to California.  There he found his new professional home with Moon Valley Nurseries, a company he loved dearly.  His dedication and expertise led him to Scottsdale, Arizona, where he served as the company’s General Counsel.  Joe’s contributions were invaluable, and his colleagues admired him for his sharp mind, exceptional writing skills and work ethic.

With all of these professional accomplishments being said, they are not what one first thinks of when they think of Joe.  Joe had a larger-than-life personality—a force of nature that drew people in. His heart was as big as his smile, and he would do anything for you, no questions asked.  Second only to Joe’s love for his friends and family was his legendary enthusiasm for the NY Giants, playing golf and cooking gourmet meals for guests. Joe was a true movie buff, able to recite countless lines from memory and on the spot, invoking laughter and joy in those around him… which was a common consequence of being in Joe’s presence.

Joe, a beloved member of City Rocks AAU Basketball, was part of the first team to travel to a National Event as a teenager. After his playing days, he became a coach for the team, helping many players on and off the court. Even after moving from Albany, he stayed involved by joining the Board of Directors. Joe was affectionately known in City Rock circles as “The Wolf” for his problem-solving skills. People would say, “Call The Wolf” whenever an issue arose.

He will be deeply missed by his parents, Robert and Susan Dougherty; his sister and brother-in-law Kristin and Paul Henderson; his nephew and niece Robbie and Lexie; his Aunt Anne and Uncle Tommy, Aunt Elaine, Aunt Joanne, and Aunt Joelle; beloved cousins Paul, Elizabeth, Suzanne, Alan, Thomas, Karen, Katie, Missy, Matthew, Alicia, and Marty; friends and coworkers.  Joe’s sudden departure has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of all who knew him, but his legacy will continue to live on through them.

Joe was predeceased by his Grandparents; Angelo and Josephine Buzzallino; Robert and Marcella Dougherty. His Aunts and Uncles; Joan Buzzallino, Paul and Anne Buzzallino; Charles Demarco; and many close friends. 

Relatives and friends are invited to call Friday, July 19, 2024 from 4 - 7 p.m. at St. Matthew's Church, 25 Mountainview St., Voorheesville, NY. and a  Memorial Mass will be celebrated Saturday, July 20, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. at St. Matthew's Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Albany City Rocks 501c3 in Joe’s memory, Albany City Rocks, 374 Broadway, Albany, NY 12207, www.CityRocks.org.