Thomas M. Daugherty 1947-2024
CHAMPION — Thomas M. Daugherty, 77, of Champion, went to be with the Lord Wednesday, May 1, 2024, after a long, courageous battle with Vietnam War service-related illnesses. He left this world surrounded by his family, lifted up with prayers, the scriptures that he loved, along with his favorite gospel music in the background.
He was born Feb. 17, 1947, in Warren, the son of the late Archie H. and Catherine M. Whitehead Daugherty.
He was a graduate of Lakeview High School in Cortland. Thomas was a body man by trade and worked as a foreman at Jim Pace Pontiac in Niles.
Thomas served in the Vietnam War from 1966 to 1967. He was a vehicle driver in the U.S. Army 101st Airborne, 82nd Division. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal with four bronze stars and Expert Badge with Rifle Bar.
He enjoyed “tinkering” in the garage and “rigging” things. He loved sharing the Gospel and bringing others to Jesus. He lived life for Jesus and demonstrated that love every day. He was always thankful and loved others fiercely. He made sure to let you know how important you were to him and how proud he was of you. He always had a lasting impact on those he came in contact with.
He loved and supported his family without fail. Nothing brought him more joy than to watch his grandchildren in the sports or activities that they participated in.
He is survived by his wife, Janet C. Davis Daugherty; sister, Patricia Daugherty Stull; daughters, Carolyn (Kraig) Dahmen, Jessica (Heath) Boggs, Chris (Lily) Rhine and Brandy (Craig) Houser; grandchildren, Tristan Dahmen, Tanner Dahmen, Terence Boggs, Kurt Boggs, Jesse (Ashley) Rhine, Joshua Rhine, Zach Houser and Brittany Houser; great-grandchildren, Ecko Rhine, Mya Rhine and Jeremy Rhine; sisters-in-law, Beverly Daugherty and Elaine Daugherty; and many nieces and nephews.
He was married to the love of his life, “His Pearl,” Janet Daugherty, for 49 years.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Archie and Ronald C. Daugherty, and son, James Rhine.
Friends and family are welcome to attend a service at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 18, 2024, at Journey Christian Church. There will be a celebration of life following the service until 5 p.m.
Per his wishes and religious beliefs, he will be cremated prior to his celebration.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Carl W. Hall Funeral Home.
(special notice)