Susan Jean Dougherty, 61, of York, formerly of the Lehigh Valley, died peacefully Oct. 9, 2023.

Born Feb. 10, 1962, in Orange, N.J., she was the daughter of the late Margaret “Peggy” Joan (Frayne) Hettrick.

She was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin and friend.

As a young child, she shared a passion and love for animals that continued throughout her life.

She was gifted with a green thumb when it came to nurturing plants.

A 1980 graduate of West Orange High School, she spoke often about her time as the manager of the football team and cherished those memories.

While in high school, she met the love of her life and father of her children, John Dougherty.

Together they created five amazing children.

She struggled over the last 10 years with the loss of her youngest son Johnny, however, she always found the love and a kindred spirit inside her to help others.

She will always be remembered for having a big heart and the love she shared with everyone she met.

She will forever live on in our hearts and minds, knowing she is now in heaven with her arms wrapped around her precious son Johnny brings a smile to our faces.

Surviving are her children Deborah “Debbie” Dougherty and fiancé Vincent Yannotti, of New Tripoli, Conor Dougherty of Allentown, Kyle Dougherty and his wife, Katie, of Oceanside, Calif., and Kelly Dougherty of Whitehall; sisters Peggy Ann Hettrick of Dover, N.J., Donna Farrelly and her husband. Paul. of Denville, N.J., Diane Hettrick of St. John Island, S.C., and Mary Maksimow and her husband. Victor, of Budd Lake, N.J.; grandchildren Kadence, Kendall, Kane, Kole and Khloe; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was predeceased by her son Johnny Dougherty; sister Deborah Lynn Hettrick; brother William “Billy” Hettrick; brother-in-law Larry Weiss; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Condolences may be offered at kellerfuneralhomes.com.

Contributions may be made to the Greater Lehigh Valley Out of the Darkness Walk at supporting.afsp.org.

Arrangements were made by Keller Funeral Home, Fogelsville.