Retired Boston Firefighter Francis J. “Frannie” Doherty, a resident of Brooksby Village, Peabody and formerly of Charlestown, entered into eternal life on Wednesday, June 29, 2022 at the North Shore Medical Center in Salem. He was 85 years of age.
Frannie was born in Boston on September 27, 1936, a son of the late Daniel Doherty and Mary (Harrington) Doherty. He grew up in Charlestown where he was educated in the Boston Public School system and graduated from Charlestown High School. He was a celebrated athlete in hockey, football and baseball and graced the pages of Sports Illustrated for his efforts in the Boston City League. Leaving the pro sports offers behind, he married the love of his life Winnie Burke, started a family, and celebrated 62 years of marriage before Winnie’s passing in 2020. He was a Longshoreman, Teamsters Local 25 at Mass. Port Authority before joining the Boston Fire Department(now retired Engine 26 - South End) and serving at the Charlestown Firehouse until his retirement. Fran was one of the founders of “The Halligan Club”(his home away from home) a proud member of the Irish Brigade marching proudly in Ireland and the Bunker Hill Day Parade. His sharp wit, infectious laugh and ability to play the Tin Whistle at a moment’s notice will be remembered by many.
Frannie is the devoted husband of the late Winnie (Burke) Doherty and we find comfort that they are together again. He is the beloved father of Daniel F. Doherty and his spouse Laurie(Moore) Doherty, Donna M. Doherty and her spouse Maureen Haley, and Denise M. Warren. He is the loving Grampy to Kelsey Ann Burke Johnson, Francis D. Warren and Casey S. Warren. He is the beloved brother of Daniel Doherty of Maryland, Patricia Cahill of New Jersey, Marilyn Scanlan and her husband Joseph of Tewksbury and Vincent Doherty and his companion Rose Howell of Charlestown. He is also survived by his many loving nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Frannie's Funeral Service on Thursday morning, July 7, 2022 at 10:00 A.M. in The Carr Funeral Home, 220 Bunker Hill St. Charlestown. His burial will take place at Woodlawn Cemetery in Everett. His visiting hours will be on Wednesday, July 6, 2022 from 4 to 7 P.M. in the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, kindly make a memorial donation in Frannie’s name to The Boston Firefighters Relief Fund, 55 Hallett St. Dorchester, Mass. 02124