Dennis James Doherty Jr. was born in Boulder, Colorado, on October 30, 1957, to Dennis and Winifred Doherty. The family later moved to Casper, Wyoming, where Dennis grew up as the eldest of eleven siblings. This large, vibrant home along with the faith community at St. Patrick Parish instilled in him a lifelong love of teaching and learning. A proud graduate of Kelly Walsh High School, Dennis excelled both academically and on the golf course under the mentorship of coach Beecher Strube. These early experiences paved the way for a life defined by talent and faith. Immediately following graduation, Dennis enlisted in the U.S. Navy, beginning a distinguished 20-year career as a nuclear electrician and retiring as a Senior Chief Petty Officer in the Submarine Division with 13 underwater patrols. 

Dennis began his distinguished naval career in the Navy Nuclear Power program, completing his Electrician’s Mate "A" School with high marks. His natural aptitude for the field led him to excel at the rigorous Naval Nuclear Power School, an institution he would later return to as a respected instructor. He completed his advanced training at the Nuclear Power Training Unit in Idaho. He later returned for a subsequent tour at the Nuclear Power School in Orlando as an instructor and class director. 

Over the course of a 20-year career, Dennis served with distinction aboard the nuclear-powered submarines USS James Madison (SSBN-627) and USS Kentucky (SSBN-737), including vital time in dry dock during the PCU phase of the Kentucky prior to its commissioning. A testament to his leadership and technical mastery, Dennis earned the prestigious title of Chief of the Boat (the COB serves as the primary liaison between the submarine’s commanding officer and the enlisted crew.). His expertise was further recognized when he reached the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer; his gold stripes served as a proud symbol of 20 years of continuous outstanding conduct. 

A seasoned veteran of the deep, Dennis earned numerous prestigious honors while serving aboard the USS Pargo (SSN-650). His seafaring milestones included the Order of the Bluenose for crossing the Arctic Circle, the Order of the Ditch for transiting the Panama Canal, the Order of Magellan for circumnavigating the globe, and entry into the Domain of the Golden Dragon upon crossing the 180th Meridian. His highly decorated service included the Navy Commendation Medal, the Navy Achievement Medal with three gold stars, and the Navy Good Conduct Medal with four stars. For his honorable service during the Gulf War and the War on Terrorism, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, along with the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (four stars) and the Navy Arctic Service Ribbon. 

As his naval career progressed, so did his family; he married Dawn and welcomed two children, Danielle and Scott. While Dennis excelled professionally as an instructor at the Nuclear Power Training School and Command, his life was defined by more than just his work. A natural athlete who was never content to simply be a spectator, he found great joy and camaraderie in the swimming pool, on the softball field, at the bowling alley, and especially on the golf course. 

Dennis eventually settled in the Orlando and Clermont area, where his life flourished in new and meaningful ways. A dedicated parishioner of Holy Family Catholic Church and an active member of the Legends Golf Club, he became a pillar of his local community. It was here that his life with Michelle truly blossomed, beginning 32 years of shared love defined by golf, travel, and countless adventures. In a poetic transition from his naval service, Dennis rose from the depths of the ocean to sail upon it with Michelle, embarking on 33 cruises to over 30 countries and golfing across the globe. Yet, ever the leader, he also dedicated himself to his community; his instrumental efforts to reestablish the Legends Golf and Country Club left behind a legacy that will endure for years to come. 

Beyond the invaluable skills and experience gained as a nuclear electrician, Dennis’s naval service paved the way for his academic pursuits. He took full advantage of these opportunities, earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Columbia College (magna cum laude) and a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Troy University (summa cum laude). Dennis eventually translated his lifelong commitment to excellence into a new mission: mentorship in the classroom. 

Dennis’s passion for science and education remained a guiding force. He began a second career as a middle school science teacher, where he did far more than just follow a curriculum; he motivated and inspired his students. His impact was formally recognized when he was named Windy Hill Middle School Teacher of the Year and received the prestigious PRISM Science Teacher of the Year award for Lake County Secondary Schools.

 While his awards speak to his distinction as an educator, his true love was his family. He has now found peace, reunited on April 9, 2026 with the family members who preceded him in eternal rest. Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, Dennis and Winifred Doherty; his grandparents; his brother-in-law, Gale Roberts; his aunt, Anne Patrice Patino; and his uncle, Paul Doherty. 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Michelle Doherty; his children, Danielle (Cory) and Scott; and his cherished grandchildren, Bryson (Rachel), Heyden, Halle, and Brinlee. 

He also leaves behind ten brothers and sisters: Michael Doherty, Patrick (Cindy) Doherty, Maureen Roberts, Kevin (Celia) Doherty, Kathleen Souza, John (Mary) Doherty, Colleen (Todd) Domer, Teresa (Grant) Salada, Sheila Doherty, and Josephine (Richard) Burke. He is further survived by his aunts, Maureen Doherty and Sheila Doherty; 26 nieces and nephews; and 15 great-nieces and nephews. 

Funeral Mass will be held Tuesday, May 12, 2026, 1pm, at Holy Family Catholic Church.

Interment with Military Honors will be Wednesday, May 13, 2026, 11:30am, at Florida National Cemetery.

In respect of Dennis’s commitment to quality education and his deep faith, the family suggests donations to Holy Family Catholic School. in his honor, in lieu of flowers.