Francis Joseph Doherty Jr., known as Frank, transitioned to Heaven on July 30, 2026, in Jacksonville, Florida surrounded by Family and friends. He was 78 and passed away from complications of a stroke.
He was born in 1948 in Waltham, Massachusetts to Francis J. Doherty and Irene Doherty. He had two younger sisters, Linda, and Karen, and the family dog, Chipper. Frank grew up in a close-knit family surrounded by love, support, and lots of laughter. During his youth, he caddied at Pinebrook Country Club in Weston, Massachusetts. It was there that he found his love for Golf. Our Dad was a scratch golfer, while Frank Jr. had a respectable 10 handicap. He always worked hard, going out for 2 or 3 loops per day.
While at Waltham High School, Frank also played Basketball and was a superlative Track star, who ran a 4:30 mile. He ran relays with Don Ricciato and Team, where tremendous notoriety and success were realized. Frank was extended an invitation into the prestigious Pennsylvania State Relays, where he excelled. My family loved watching Frank at his track meets. Frank was a generous supporter of Waltham High Football, and the Gridiron Club. He also supported his sister Karen's athletic endeavors, as well as his cousins, the Rooney Girls. He loved watching and supporting Waltham's Women's Teams equally.
Frank continued his Education earning a scholarship to Northeastern University, in Boston, Massachusetts. It was in 1968, when Frank was drafted into the Vietnam War. He entered the Marine Corps, where he was quickly promoted to Corporal. He assumed the responsibility of his Major as part of his Tour of duty. Frank was also awarded several medals during his service, but the one he coveted most was when he received his freedom. After 2 years in Vietnam, he continued his Military service in the Marine Corp Reserves at Camp Pendleton, California from 1970 until 1974.
Following the war, Frank rediscovered his passion for golf. He became a Professional Caddie on the LPGA Tour with Susie McAllister. He journeyed on to establish himself as the Ace Caddie at Indian Creek Country Club located in Indian Creek Village, Florida, near Miami Beach, Florida. Indian Creek is an elite private course with membership capped at 300 members. He absolutely found his dream job and enjoyed 47 years offering sage advice and friendship to his colleagues and members alike. His clients included Carl Icahn, Captain Tim Sullivan, Earl Powell, Kip Cornett, and Wanda Quigley Hooper. His favorite PGA player and friend was Raymond Floyd. He was also friendly with Julio Iglesias. Frank had a penchant for entertaining storytelling, which was known throughout the Club. He found a brotherhood shared with his best friend, Joe Buck. Joe was Frank's Caddie Master, and the brother Frank never had. Joe saved Frank's Life when he suffered his stroke and was a loyal friend until the end. Joe Compitello, the Club Pro, was also a wonderful friend to Frank throughout his illness. Caddie Matt visited Frank at Life Care Nursing Home, and Wanda Hooper kept in constant contact, as well.
Frank was also proud of his sobriety, as he was a member of AA, for over 40 years of his Life.
Frank is survived by sisters, Linda Wile and Karen Doherty, along with sister-in-law, Kristine Kepler; cousins, Paula Rooney (Tom), Arthur Veno Jr., and Jack Holway. Karen and Kristine were Frank's care givers over the past 6 ½ years of his life. The family cannot thank Kristine enough for the empathy and love she provided to Frank. They had a special relationship. We also wish to recognize Frank's "Special" friend, CNA extraordinaire, Anne Marie Johnson, who exhibited exemplary care to Frank until his last breath. The family wishes to extend their sincere Thanks to several members of Life Care Center of Jacksonville, including Jane Sneed, Nurses: Kiara, Ache, LaToya, and Marsha, and CNA's: Evelyn, Pablo, Shameika, Rodesia, and Zena for their compassionate care. Gratitude is extended to Community Hospice members, Cory and Shirley, who were Angels of Mercy.
Frank was preceded in death by his loving parents, Frank and Irene Doherty.
Frank's brain tissue was donated to the Mayo Clinic Brain Bank in Jacksonville, Florida for research purposes. Military Honors will be held at a later date at Ponte Vedra Valley Cemetery in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. They will handle Frank's arrangements as well.
If you wish, donations are encouraged to be made in Frank's name to Community Hospice and Palliative Care. 4266 Sunbeam Road Jacksonville, Fl 32257.
Frank's final wishes will be carried out at Indian Creek Country Club, also known as the "Billionaire Bunker". Do not be surprised if you hear Frank's voice helping you out of one of the many sand traps.
