Bertie Corrine Watson Dougherty

Bertie Watson Dougherty 90, of Asheville, NC, peacefully passed away in her home on November 6, 2025.

Born March 7, 1935 in Lowland, NC, she was the ninth of 10 children to Kelly and Ada Watson. Bertie was a deeply kind and gentle soul, beloved by all who knew her for her sweet nature, quiet strength, and warm, welcoming spirit. Her home was a place of comfort and hospitality, where friends and family alike always felt embraced and loved. She lived out her Christian faith with grace, and her life was a testament to the joy of giving—whether through her nurturing presence, her culinary gifts, or her thoughtful words.

Bertie had a deep love for life, which she expressed through many passions, including gardening, canning, baking, and crafting beautiful Christmas wreaths. Her talent for creating something special extended to all aspects of her life, including her care for others. She was a gifted teacher with a degree in Elementary Education from Milligan University in Johnson City, TN, and spent many years teaching both young children and adults. She touched the lives of students in New Bern, NC, Johnson City, TN, Charleston, SC, and Asheville, NC, as well as in Columbia County, FL.

It was at Milligan, where Bertie met Ronald Dougherty. She from the coast of North Carolina, and he from the mountains of Southwest Virginia. Ron said it was clear from the moment he saw her, he was going to make Bertie his wife. She liked to respond with a nod and a wink, “he chased me for five years before I caught him.” They married on a hot July day in Lowland, NC and the wedding reception was held in the Watson family shrimp house, which had been hosed down that morning for the special occasion. A memorable beginning to a long and prosperous marriage of 67 years.

Though Bertie’s heart carried the sorrow of losing a daughter, June Elizabeth, at the age of four due to a brain tumor, her life was filled with love and joy in the family she raised. She is survived by her devoted husband, Ronald J. Dougherty; her sons Mark (Sheila) Dougherty of Wilmington, NC, and Daniel (Denea) Dougherty of Mooresville, NC; her daughters Rebecca Dougherty of Asheville, NC, and Rhonda (Scott) Macy of Charleston, SC; and seven grandchildren, Savannah Dougherty Tackett (Trevor), Devon Tucker (Lauren), Rachel Kidd (Nicholas), Mitchell Tucker (Jocie), Corrine Dougherty, Cody Dougherty (Rebecca), and Ava Hope Macy. She is also survived by a step-grandson, Jace Macy; her sister, Marjorie Eggleston of Lovingston, VA; her brother, Kelly Watson Jr. of Newbern, NC; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Bertie’s legacy lives on in the kindness, warmth, and love she so freely gave to others. Her family is deeply grateful for the devoted care provided by Nancy Hudgins over the past three years. She became a part of our family like an angel sent. We also thank our church family for their prayers and support, and especially to Lynn Golden for her assistance in the home. We will be forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support from all who knew her.

Services will be at Groce Funeral Home, 856 Tunnel Rd, Asheville, NC on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. The family will receive friends for an hour and half prior to the service. Burial will be at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Candler, NC, following the service.