James R. Doherty

James R. Doherty, of Horsham, passed away on February 10, 2021, surrounded by his loving family at the age of 95. Jim was the beloved husband of 72 years to Elizabeth (Schatzi) M. (McCreery) Doherty. He was born in Philadelphia, PA, son of the late Alexander and Gertrude (Zoerner) Doherty.

Jim was very dedicated to his country serving for 13 years in the United States Air Force. He became a bomber pilot at the age of 18 and served in both the European and Pacific Theaters in WWII as a Second Lieutenant. He continued in the Reserves for an additional five years as a First Lieutenant pilot and was called back to serve in the Korean Conflict, stationed in Ramstein, Germany. He continued his service for an additional five years in the Air National Guard.

Jim continued to serve his community in many roles such as a member of Horsham Council, Horsham Little League, Sewer Authority, Parks and Recreation, Environmental Advisory Board and Vacancy Board. Jim was a member of the Board of Directors for the Hatboro-Horsham School District for 20 years, receiving many awards throughout his service. He was also elected to the HH Hall of Fame for outstanding community service. He was a member of the Horsham Lions for 10 years and the Horsham VFW for 20 years. Jim was also dedicated to his faith, serving many roles at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Hatboro as the Finance Chairman, a council member, teacher, and as a member of the communion team.

Jim’s greatest love was his family. In addition to his wife Elizabeth, Jim is survived by his children, Cheryl Beaver (Chuck), Sharon Bauz (Karl) and Jim Doherty (Donna); grandchildren, Jennifer Brandis, Eryn Meenan, Michelle Difusco, Kelly Beaver, Brett Bauz, Karlee Gana, Amanda Didolkar, Ryan Doherty, Kaitlyn Doherty; 16 great grandchildren; and his sister, Maryjane Singley.

Due to COVID restrictions, a private service for immediate family only will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church, Perkasie, on Thursday, February 25.  A recording of the funeral service will be posted on the Trinity Lutheran Perkasie YouTube channel.  His interment will follow at Washington Crossing National Cemetery.

A separate celebration of Jim’s life is being planned for the fall.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jim’s memory may be made to the Horsham VFW Post 9788, 324 Sawmill Lane, Horsham, PA 19044 for the James R. Doherty Scholarship fund.

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