James Kenneth Dougherty, 85, of Danville, passed away June 19, 2026. He was born in Christian County, KY on September 10, 1940 to parents Edward and Eva Dougherty. 

James served in the Navy and was a dedicated Kentucky State Trooper in Franklin and Rowan Counties for many years. James, “Papa Red”, was an outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing, cooking for his family and most of all, loved reading to great-grandson Lane. 

James leaves behind sons Kevin Dougherty (Amanda) of Lancaster and Criss Dougherty of Texas; grandchildren Kody Dougherty (Niki), Nathaniel Dougherty, Sean Dougherty and Liam Dougherty and great-grandchild Lane Woody of Lancaster.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Edward Dougherty, Jr. and a sister, Dorothy Ann Tillman.

A graveside service will be held at 11 am Friday, June 26, 2026 at Camp Nelson National Cemetery in Nicholasville, Kentucky.