Obituary of James Robert Doherty

James Robert Doherty, a proud Veteran and retired employee of the MBTA passed away peacefully with his son and daughter at his bedside on Thursday morning, May 18, 2017. He was 76 years old. James was born in Cambridge, the son of John and Catherine Doherty. He grew up in Cambridge and was a graduate of Cambridge Rindge and Latin High School. He served honorably in the Army National Guard. When the Vietnam Moving Wall came to Burlington, James quickly volunteered to help in whatever manner was needed. He was deeply moved and touched by the vast crowds who came to show their respect for those who had given their life for their country. He was a past member of the American Legion Millican-Mckenzie Post 273 in Burlington. As a hobby, James also collected and restored vintage military vehicles. He worked on everything from jeeps to duck boats over the years. His personal pride and joy was a 1954 Dodge M50 which he fully restored and often drove in parades and other veteran’s events. After his military service, James went to work at the MBTA. He was a bus driver/ operator for over 30 years. James moved his family from Arlington to Burlington in 1982. He was involved in Burlington Little League and local politics. Over the years he worked on many political campaigns including Charley Murphy’s race for State Representative, Robert Hogan, Al Fay, and George Judges Selectman’s races. He had the honor to be appointed as a State Delegate. He was also an avid Boston Sports fan and enjoyed following NASCAR. Some who might not have known James might consider him quiet, but those close to him appreciated his wisdom and colorful sense of humor. James was a man devoted to his family. He was the loving husband of 52 years to his wife Doris “Kate”. He was very proud of his children Kathleen Doherty of Burlington, son Kevin Doherty of Billerica, and his daughter-in-law Suzie Doherty for their accomplishments and how they have become strong and responsible adults. He was affectionately called “Bimpy” by his twin grandsons, Gavin Daniel Doherty and Ronan James Doherty whom he adored. He was the brother of Mary Wheeler, Donna Needham, Phillip &quote;Phil”, Francis &quote;Frankie&quote;, Patricia &quote;Patsey&quote; Seifert, John &quote;Jack&quote;, George &quote;Barney&quote;, Leonard &quote;Bucko&quote;. He was also survived by many nieces and nephews. Funeral from the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home 43 Winn Street, BURLINGTON (exit 34 off Rt. 128/95, Woburn side) on Tuesday, May 23 at 9 a.m. Followed by a Funeral Mass at St. Malachy's Church 99 Bedford Street, Burlington at 10 a.m. Visiting on Monday from 4:00 to 8:00pm. In lieu of flowers we ask that a donations be made to either the DFCI Fund 450 Brookline Ave. Boston Ma. 02215 c/o Dr. Patrick Wen. or the Sawtelle Family Hospice House, 320 Haverhill Street Reading Ma. 01864