James Bonner "Butch" Dougherty, 79, passed away on November 27, 2025, at his home. Born December 4, 1945, in Newport News, Virginia, Butch made his home in Tarboro, North Carolina, where he built a life centered on hard work, family, and service to others. For more than four decades, Butch worked in the construction and trades industry, owning and operating his own business with pride, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to doing things the right way. While he achieved much in his profession, he often said his greatest accomplishments came from coaching. Reaching young people, helping them grow, and leading teams to championships brought him deep purpose and joy. Nothing made Butch happier than his Sunday "check-ins" with his family and loved ones, carrying friends and family to experience Carolina football, and gathering by the pool or at the beach for a good time. His three favorite places were Chapel Hill, Kitty Hawk, and home. Those who knew him well also knew that Butch valued promptness—he was never late, a small but steady reflection of the reliability and dependability he lived by. Butch is preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy Leggett Griffin (affectionately known as Granny Dot), his brother, Phil Dougherty, and his sister, Margaret Virginia Dougherty. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Vicki Taylor Dougherty; daughters Susan Dukes (Eric), Penny Williams (Craig), and Jami Dougherty; and his son, Rob Dougherty (Bridget). He is also survived by his sister, Mary Lou Rogers (Ricky), along with eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, all of whom he loved dearly. Per Butch's request, there will be no memorial service. A Celebration of his Life will be held at a later time. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the many medical teams who cared for Butch throughout the past year: Jennifer Baker, PA-C, with Family Medicine in Tarboro; and ECU Health Orthopedics, Cancer Center- Tarboro, Radiation, and Home Health & Hospice. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to: ECU Health Home Health and Hospice 1005 W.S. Smith Blvd Greenville, NC 27834 Butch's legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched—with his firm guidance, relentless work ethic, and sharp wit.