Bruce Docherty Obituary

Bruce Allen Docherty, 84, of Oakton, VA, passed away on May 30, 2025. He was born on April 14, 1941, to John and Helen Docherty in Somerville, NJ, and is survived by his loving wife Paula Crisler. He also leaves behind his stepson Gordon Crisler (Paul) of Chicago, IL; his nephew Rob Docherty (Crystal) of Charlotte, NC; his niece Wendy McAulliffe (Todd) of Charlotte, NC; and his sisters-in-law Peggy Docherty of Millersville, MD, Sue Docherty of Charlotte, NC, Linda Avgerinos (Mike) of Wilton, CT, and Leslie Tzirimis (Nick) of Reston, VA.  He was predeceased by his brothers Jack Docherty and Wayne Docherty.

Bruce grew up in New Jersey and graduated from Somerville High School before enrolling in Lebanon Valley College in Annville, PA. He graduated with a BS in Music Education. He auditioned for The United States Army Field Band, was accepted playing the trombone, and served for six years. Bruce then earned a Master of Music in Music Education at Youngstown State University in Youngstown, OH. While working on his advanced degree, he played with the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra and was a high school instrumental music teacher. He relocated to Fairfax County, VA, in 1984 and was a well-respected private music teacher for many years.

Bruce was a devoted husband to his wife Paula. When she developed health issues, he worked tirelessly researching medical options to help her.

Bruce's second love was music. He loved classical, jazz, opera, and all genres of music. His collection of albums and CDs was extensive. He was a member of the International Trombone Association and attended their annual workshops. He always enjoyed the annual Army Field Band reunions, maintaining old friendships.

He had a wide range of interests. Bruce was an avid photographer. He usually had a camera around his neck capturing people and places. He loved traveling to Ireland, China, Australia, the Galapagos, and South Africa. He was a golfer, but did not get to play as much as he would have liked. He researched the family genealogy, and he often fished in the Outer Banks.

Bruce hoped to be remembered as living a long and interesting life and with life’s inevitable challenges he always endeavored to be a good person.

A memorial service celebrating Bruce's life will be held at Vienna Presbyterian Church, 124 Park Street NE, Vienna, VA, on Friday, June 13, 2025, at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society or the Alzheimer's Association. A private burial will be in Hillsborough Township, NJ.