Mr. Clarence A. "Duffy" Dougherty, Ret. UPD

UTICA – Mr. Clarence A. “Duffy” Dougherty, Ret. UPD, age 70, was reunited with his son on Sunday, August 4, 2024, after a courageous battle with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy. At the time of his passing, his devoted family was by his side. Born in Utica on October 3, 1953, Clarence was the son of the late Chester A. and Joan (Potocki) Dougherty. He was a graduate of Utica Free Academy. He then entered the work force, holding various positions before realizing his true calling was to serve and protect his community. He graduated from MVCC with a degree in criminal justice and attended Utica College. On June 30, 1978, Duffy married the love of his life, Rose Mary Palmisano. The two of them shared a strong bond and connection as a couple. They balanced each other perfectly, with his mischievous spirit and her calm demeanor. No matter the stresses of work and life’s demands, Duffy and Rose Mary always made time for one another. Their family was of the utmost importance. They shared the same values and instilled those values in their children. From sporting events and dance recitals to education and careers, Duffy was their biggest cheerleader. He was a born protector, an attribute that reflected not only professionally, but most importantly in his roles as husband and father. Duffy joined the Utica Police Department in 1983, where he diligently served for twenty years. Additionally, he worked in security with the Municipal Housing Authority. After his retirement in 2003, Duffy held a security position at the Federal Office Building in Utica. He subsequently found his niche as a security monitor with Utica City School District at Columbus Elementary School. He inherently took his duties to heart and showed an active interest in the faculty, staff, and students. He enjoyed getting to know those he protected and considered the time he spent at the school as moments spent with family. Indeed, the best part of being at the school was being able to work with his dear Rose Mary. Duffy’s quick wit balanced with sarcasm brought many laughs and smiles. He was generous, intelligent, warm-hearted, strong in his convictions, and knew the value of good food and great company. Duffy enjoyed a great love ballad, and you could always find him driving in his car belting out the lyrics. He had a passion for music which he shared with all those around him. Duffy enjoyed all things sports. In his younger years, he was a talented bowler and athlete. Later in life, Duffy became a great fan of the Buffalo Bills and the Boston Red Sox. Duffy is survived by his devoted wife, Rose Mary; and daughter and son-in-law, Jennifer and Paul Reittinger. He treasured the memory of his son, Sean; and cherished the time he spent with his granddaughters, Alexa Dougherty; and Sophie Reittinger, who lit up his world. His loss will be also felt by his sisters, Cynthia Cohen (the late Dr. Jeffrey Cohen), and Cheryl Ewing; brothers and sisters-in-law, Chuck and Palma Dougherty, and Chet and Debbie Dougherty; nieces and nephews, Jesse Cohen, Nina Cohen (Jason Gates), Erin Brackett (Nick), Meghan DiDiego (Juan), Chuck Dougherty, Jr., Judi Taylor (Tony), Matt Dougherty (Peter), Kim Dougherty, and his “little brother”, Terry Ewing (Rosie), who Duffy shared a special bond with; great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins; and in-laws, David Simbari, Ann and Tom Wolanski, Jeffrey Almstead (the late Rebecca Almstead), Cindy Morgan (the late Dave Morgan), Richard and Maria Salamida, Mark Salamida and Steve Mendrek, and Roger Perta. He was predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, John A. and Rita E. (Salamida) Palmisano. The Dougherty family wishes to extend their gratitude to Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., the Abraham House, and Gloria Underwood for the exceptional level of care provided to Duffy and his family. Rose Mary would also like to thank all their cherished family and friends for their love and support throughout the years. Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 8, 2024, from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Memorial contributions in Duffy’s honor may be made to the Abraham House online at www.theabrahamhouse.org/ways-to-support/donate/ or to the PSP Foundation online at www.psp.org/donate; envelopes will also be available at the funeral home. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Duffy’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life, which will commence on Friday, August 9, 2024, at 8:45 a.m. from the funeral home and at 10:00 a.m. at Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish, Lourdes Campus, 2222 Genesee St. Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery.

Mr. Clarence A. "Duffy" Dougherty, Ret. UPD

October 3, 1953 - August 4, 2024