On Friday, June 11, musician and entertainer, Jerome Kevin Dougherty, passed away at Riverside Health Complex from complications arising from Polycythemia. Friends and family were by his side.
When he was 10 years old, Jerome's brother Jack began teaching him guitar, sparking a passion for music and storytelling he shared with his brothers, including Jason and Jim. The guitar never left Jerome's side and he could craft a song for every person and occasion.
Jerome grew up in Germany and Phoebus, where he enjoyed soccer, swimming, and diving, along with his music. After graduation, he spent time in Utah with his sister, Jennifer, before returning to settle on the Peninsula. Loved by many, Jerome, perhaps, appreciated intensity and diversity more than consistency, as reflected in the wide range of jobs, hobbies, and friends with whom he shared his life.
Jerome is survived by his sons, including Kyle Okuma, Brandon Dougherty, and Wesley Dougherty; by brothers and sisters Jack, Jim, Joann, Jason, Jennifer, Jared, and Jeanne, many nieces and nephews, and close friends including Eric, Bobby, Willie, Bill, and others, who were family to him. His parents, Joseph S Dougherty and Ann McCaffrey Dougherty; brothers Joseph, Justin, and Jeremy; and wife, Stacie Graham preceded him in passing.
Jerome kept friendships for his whole life and welcomed newcomers into his circle. As the host of a regular open mic night, he shared his sharp wit and passion for music and people, fostering a community of like-minded friends from all walks of life. He was ever mindful and grateful for his friends loving support during difficult and special times.
While he may sometimes have underestimated the joy he brought to others, Jerome was always quick with a kind word and to say what everyone already understood, "You know I love you!".
Family and friends will gather on Thursday, June 17th to celebrate Jerome's life at 6pm at R. Hayden Smith for a brief service followed by an Open Mic night at Marker 20 to toast him with stories and songs.  The Celebration of Life will be live streamed on the funeral home Facebook page. CLICK HERE for Live Stream . (will start live at approximately 5:58 PM).