In Memory of Everett Ray Dougherty
September 13, 1912 - December 10, 2011
DOUGHERTY, EVERETT R. - age 99 of the Ridgedale Community and a longtime member of Grace Baptist Church passed away Saturday, December 10, 2011 at Ben Atchley State Veterans Home.
He is preceded in death by his parents Ray and Tissah Dougherty; his wife, Hazel (Estes) Dougherty; son, Kenny W. Dougherty; brother, Melvin Dougherty; and sister, Mildred Dougherty Workman. Everett leaves three grandchildren, Bernadette (Steve) Hammond and their sons Ashton and Peyton, Dr. Matthew Dougherty, and Michael Dougherty and his daughter Emma. He leaves many nieces and nephews.
Everett was born in KY and moved to Knox County, TN, first to Powell where he went to school, and played high school football. After graduation he worked for Cherokee Knitting Mills. Everett was drafted into the Army at the age of 32 to serve in the infantry in WWII, as recorded by friend Jack Collins: "After being trained at Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia, Everett was shipped overseas with the famed Thunderbird Division (the 45th). His first combat action was the fierce battle of Anzio in Italy which lasted five months. It was one of the most decisive battles of World War II, taking place about 35 miles from Rome. Later his division went on to capture Rome. Shortly afterwards, in August of 1944, his division landed in France and joined the 42nd Rainbow division in a drive through France and Germany. His division was in many major battles, and just before the war ended was credited with the liberation of 32,000 inmates at the Dachau Concentration Camp. During 511 days of almost constant combat 20,000 soldiers of his division were killed, wounded, or missing in action. Everett was wounded three times and received the Purple Heart, the European African Middle Eastern Service Metal with four Bronze Stars and one Bronze Arrowhead, a Good Conduct Metal, and a World War II Victory Metal. He was given an honorable discharge on November 7, 1945".
After the war Everett worked at Y-12 in Oak Ridge as a chemical operator for about 21 years. He served as Knox Co. Baptist Training Union Director for several years. Later in life, Everett and his wife Hazel began hybridizing Daylilies and won many awards over the years. They were active members of the Hemerocallis (Daylily) Society. Some of their most enjoyable times were spent with their flower customers and traveling to Florida to live in the winter. Everett's smile was contagious and befriended many people.
Thanks to friends, family, and the wonderful caregivers who added joy to his life. Special thanks to Peter Shea, Laura Riester, Bonnie Herrell, and Sue Reagan - they managed his health and affairs when he was no longer able. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Grace Christian Academy, 5914 Beaver Ridge Rd., Knoxville, TN 37931. The family will receive friends 1:00-2:30 pm Tuesday at Weaver's Chapel with the service to follow at 2:30. Rev. Mark Braddom officiating. The burial will follow at New Gray Cemetery.
