Geraldine Dougherty

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Geraldine M. Dougherty, age 67, of Chester Springs, Pennsylvania. She died peacefully, with family members by her bedside, on November 18, 2025. Geri, the ninth of ten children of William J. Dougherty and Geraldine O. Dougherty (Dennen), was born on May 17, 1958, at Nazareth Hospital. She grew up in Cornwells Heights (now Bensalem), Pennsylvania, where she attended St. Charles Borromeo grade school. She then attended Archbishop Ryan High School, graduating in 1976.

During her work life, Geri held a variety of retail sales positions, including Woolco Department Store, where her attendance, loyalty, and hard work earned her a feature on the cover of a quarterly report to shareholders. She later moved into food service, gaining the experience and practical skills that eventually enabled her to become manager of Geri’s Café, a family-owned luncheonette known for its clean, fast, and friendly service. When the luncheonette was sold, Geri retired from full-time work.

Geri is survived by her siblings Bill (Jo Anna), Maureen Witte (Gary), Cecilia McCloskey (Jack), Steve, Kevin (Marsha, deceased), Brian (Liz), Terry, Rick (Nancy), and Ellen; as well as 18 nieces and nephews and 9 great-nieces and nephews.

While Geri cherished all time spent with family, she especially enjoyed being with her nieces and nephews and their growing families. Geri was an avid fan of musicals—especially The Sound of Music, The Music Man, and The Wizard of Oz. She also enjoyed game shows, and was enthusiastic about singing and dancing along to Motown and soul music.

Upon reflection, Geri would say she was particularly proud of the years she volunteered as coach of the Bensalem Swim Club Swim Team, a perennial powerhouse in Bucks County Summer League swimming.

Geri received compassionate care from the teams at Exton Acute Care and Main Line Hospice, and her family is deeply grateful.

A Mass intention for Geri will be offered at St. Charles Borromeo. A private interment will be held at a later date.

Her soft-hearted spirit, enduring strength, and love for her family will be forever remembered and always cherished.