James Docherty

Was the best principal ever truly missed and forever loved

James (our beloved primary school principal "Mr. Docherty") was truly an amazing human being like no other.

Whatever the day, time or occasion, he would always stop by for a lovely chat and a laugh. It could be on anything. The football, school, video games and of course, even Scotland.

A proud Scotsman and an amazing leader, he never gave up on anybody and was a true inspiration to myself and all of my other peers when we were in Willow Park.

I was truly saddened to hear about his unfortunate passing. Even though I had only been in Willow for one year, he was the first one to welcome me with open arms into the Willow Park community and for that, I cannot say anything else but truly commend such a wonderful and unique man.

Finally, James. Mr. Docherty. I would like to thank you for all of the memories you gave to me and my family growing up. You were truly an amazing person until the very end and may you rest in loving and everlasting peace.

May Mr Docherty rest in peace. Our sympathy is with his family, friends and colleagues.

To Siobhan, Ewan, Ciara, and Megan, and to everyone who knew James—whether from school, as a family friend, or a loved one—

James was truly one of a kind. He had a generous spirit and a heart full of love. He made a meaningful impact on our boys in countless ways, showing them care and kindness. His absence will be deeply felt, and he will be missed more than words can express.

There are few people who leave a lasting impression on education, and James was certainly one of them. I am incredibly grateful for the difference he made in the lives of all three of my sons, particularly for one who benefited so profoundly from his guidance. I’m thankful that I had the opportunity to express my appreciation to him on many occasions. May he rest in peace.

What set him apart was his genuine care for others.

So very sorry to hear of the loss of such a talented teacher and leader who did everything to promote the wellbeing and confidence of all the boys in his care. And he knew everyone of them. As a grandmother of four Willow Park boys I know he will be very much missed.

On behalf of the BOM, staff and students of De La Salle College I want to wish the family of James our heartfelt condolences. May he be at peace.

Sincere sympathy to the Docherty family on the sad passing of James . R I P.

Sincere sympathy to the Docherty family on the sad passing of James.R I P.

Sincere sympathy to Siobhan, Ewan, Ciara and Megan the Docherty and Sheerin families on the sad passing of James. May he rest in peace.

Deepest sympathy to Peter, Catherine and the wider Docherty family on the sudden passing of James.
We read a few of the condolences that have been sent in by former "Young Men" and families of Willow and James has definitely had a powerful influence on all who had the privilege of meeting him.

May James rest in peace.

Our deepest sympathies Siobhan, Ewan,Ciara and Megan, and all the Sheerin and Docherty family on the very sad passing of your beloved James. Our thoughts and prayers are with ye. Rest in peace. X

Siobhán, Ewan, Ciara, Meghan - sending our heartfelt sympathies to you on the untimely passing of your beloved James. Our sympathies to all of the Docherty and Sheerin families at this very sad time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you

My heartfelt sympathies to Siobhán, Ewan, Ciara, Meghan and all James' family and friends.
James and I became AIJS principals the same summer, 2016. It was always a pleasure to be in his company, sharing and comparing the many joys, challenges and rewards of the job. I was struck immediately by his warmth, great humour and immense dedication. His loss will be felt profoundly by so many both personally and professionally, but his hugely positive impact will undoubtedly endure in the hearts and minds of those he affected for many many years. Rest in peace.

So sad to hear of such a terrible loss. Our prayers and thoughts are with Siobhan and family.

We were deeply saddened to hear of Mr Docherty’s passing. His leadership and values played a significant role in our decision to send our son to Willow.

Mr Docherty genuinely embodied his ethos of ‘be kind’, a sentiment that features strong in the heartfelt messages of condolence being shared.

We hope his family and friends can find some comfort in knowing the profound impact he had on the lives of so many.

My deepest sympathies Siobhain and family on your profound loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers. May he Rest in Peace.

So sorry for your loss. Everyone on the road thought him a lovely, friendly man.

I was deeply saddened to hear of Mr. Docherty’s passing. I can truly say he was the first teacher to have a lasting impact on my life, he had the ability to make every single boy in our class feel a confidence within themselves - be it though their academics, sporting ability or otherwise. I will always remember him making our class learn the lyrics to Oh Flower of Scotland after they beat Ireland in the 6 Nations that year and we had to sing it at the end of that day in school, he had such a happy grin on his face. It still comes to my mind whenever I hear it.
My year in 6th class with him as our teacher was one I will always cherish, even more so now.

RIP Mr. Docherty

I had the pleasure and privilege of being taught by Mr James Docherty in my first year in Willow Park.He was an incredible man who always encouraged us to do our best no matter how small the task. Anything short of this would simply not suffice. Mr Docherty had an amazing way of making everyone feel special and cared for. Every achievement was celebrated to the fullest and no success went under his radar. Mr Docherty taught us that respect is earned and not to be taken for granted and we knew by the end of fourth class to always stand up for what was right. Mr Docherty led by example in this regard referring to us as “young men” at aged 10. The end of each term was the most special time as Mr Docherty would show us why he played for Celtic as he tied his suit shoes extra tight and would fly up the pitch tie flapping over his shoulder. This was of course in the most humble and gentlemanly way possible. I have never been as impacted or inspired by anyone, let alone by a man who taught me more than I could have realised aged 10.

To Siobhan, Ewan, Ciara and Meghan, thank you for sharing your incredible husband and dad with so many who needed him. He was constantly talking about you all to the point where I felt I knew you personally. He will continue to motivate and the young men that he inspired will be his legacy. I am absolutely heartbroken for you that he’s gone as he touched so many. I will never forget him.

Heartfelt sympathy to Siobhán, Ewan, Ciara, Meghan & to the extended Sheerin family on the extremely sad & untimely passing of your wonderful husband & Dad, James. May he rest in peace eternally. Be assured of my prayers during this most difficult of times. ( Your 1st class teacher, Siobhán 🙏 )

James I continue to ask myself why why why James, it makes no sense. I hope you are at peace now In heaven away from life's stresses and you will now look down and protect your heartbroken family. RIP James

Deepest condolences to Siobhán, Ewan, Ciara & Megan, the Docherty & Sheerin families on the very sad loss of your beloved James.
James was as an exceptional teacher, inspirational leader and a true gentleman, with a kind and generous spirit. He was passionate about education relishing in the joy of his classroom, which was a truly memorable experience.
He gave so much to so many in WPJ, positively influencing the lives of all who crossed his path. A remarkable role model for young pupils and teachers.
I will always remember him smiling brightly and for the wonderful energy he exuded.
It was a privilege to have known him. His brokenhearted family and friends are in my thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

James Docherty R I P

James was much loved by so many in our community. My sincere condolences to all his family, friends and colleagues. His guidance and encouragement to our boys (Aaron and Oliver) from the sidelines was so enthusiastic and real in equal measure. It was clear that James preferred playing however and this resulted in coaching sessions going on long into the hours of darkness with James playing sweeper, keeper and midfield general all for the sake of a last minute winner. Those were the days we should all cherish. Thank you James for being such a wonderful example for the boys and indeed their parents. May James rest in the arms of the Lord and when they’re picking 5-a-side teams in heaven, remember to go easy on the opposition.

Dear Siobhán, Ewan, Ciara and Meghan, heartfelt condolences on the loss of James. He was an amazing person, with such a big heart. I know James’s light will never blow out, He will remain a force in your lives as he guides you from above. Fly high James, watch over your heartbroken family.

Dear Siobhán, Ewan, Ciara and Meghan.

On our son’s first morning joining Willow in 5th class, we were bumper to bumper in a line of cars between the Castle and Willow when James appeared over the pitches, pausing to check in with cars. When he got to our car he asked if we had any young men heading for Willow, and told our son to hop out. He then accompanied him right to his classroom, chatting football with him all the way. It was a special moment for our son...James was a very special person.

Heartfelt condolences to the Docherty family.

Mr. Docherty was not only an incredible teacher, but an inspirational mentor. His fervent passion for teaching and genuine investment in all of his students' interests and wellbeing has had a lasting impact on myself and so many others. Thinking back to 6th form, it really feels like we have an endless supply of amazing memories from his classroom. Mr. Docherty sparked my desire to become a teacher, something I will forever be grateful for.

Thinking of and praying for you Siobhan, Eunan, Ciara and Megan, James’ mum, Anne , his brothers and extended family…including his WPJS one and the many others who are deeply touched by his premature passing. In iothlainn De to dtugtar sibh!

Heartfelt condolences to James’ family. Deepest sympathy to his brother Peter and the extended family. Very sorry for your loss, May he rest in peace.

Our heartfelt condolences to Siobhán, Ewan, Ciara, Meghan and the Docherty family on the passing of James.

Our four boys will always remember him for his kindness and support during their years at Willow. He was an incredible, caring educator.

James brought such energy, fun and vitality to the school. He encouraged the boys to follow their passion and guided them towards achieving their potential.

“Though nothing can bring back the hour of splendour in the grass, of glory in the flower; we will grieve not, rather find strength in what remains behind.” – William Wordsworth

May he rest in peace.

Very sorry to hear of Mr Docherty's passing. A brilliant, enthusiastic teacher who was exceptionally kind and great fun also. He was everyone's favourite teacher and we all have very fond memories of our year with him. He will be a big loss to the school. Rest in peace.

Our most sincere sympathy to you all in the Docherty, Sheerin and Keegan families on the very sad and untimely passing of James. May he rest in peace

Sincere sympathy to Peter and the Docherty family on the passing of James.

Deepest sympathy to Peter,Catherine & family on the loss of your brother... May his soul rest in peace

Thank you for the care & guidance you have shown our boys over the past 6 years in Willow park. We will forever be grateful for the everlasting memories you helped to create in their primary years. Thoughts are with your loved ones.

My son was one of the lucky ones who had the privilege of being taught by Mr Docherty in 6th Form before Mr Docherty became Principal. Even back then, Mr Docherty stood out as being a forward thinking teacher allowing his students to listen to music whilst studying. Mr Docherty was a wonderful teacher who treated each and every boy with tremendous respect and encouraged them to be the best young men that they could be. His loss to Willow Park School will be unquantifiable. His loss to his wife, children, family and friends even more so.
Requiescat in pace.

Deepest sympathy to the Docherty , Sheerin & Keegan families on the sudden passing of James
May his soul rest in peace

Dear Siobhán, Ewan, Ciara, Meghan, members of the extended Docherty and Sheerin families, friends, colleagues, students and the Willow Park and Blackrock College community, our sincere and deepest condolences to you all following the passing of your beloved James - Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dilís.

The B.O.M, staff, parents and students of Carysfort N.S. Blackrock extend our deepest sympathy to Siobhán, Ewan, Ciara, Meghan, Anne, the extended Docherty family and the staff and students of Willow Park who mourn the loss of James. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this devastating time. Suaimhneas síoraí dá anam uasal.

With deepest sympathy to the Docherty family at this sad time. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Dear Siobhán, Ewan, Ciara and Meghan. Heartfelt condolences on the loss of James. I clearly remember my first staff meeting in Willow 17 years ago where James approached me saying, 'Anything you need. Anything at all. I'm here.' He never stopped offering to help through all our years together. Forever supportive, kind and fun. I loved sending students to his office to show him good work. They'd walk back to class 10 feet tall. I will do my utmost to continue his legacy of Willow warmth in the future. We will miss him dearly. Thank you for everything James.

Our deepest sympathy to Siobhán, Ewan, Ciara and Meghan and the extended Docherty family on this very sad time.

Our family was blessed to get to know Mr Docherty at Willow through many years, we were always inspired by his kindness, positiveness and will to help. He represented the true Spirit of Willow and always motivated the boys to become the best version of themselves.

We will miss him sorely but his legacy will remain forever in our hearts.
May James rest in peace.

Heartfelt condolences to Siobhan and all of James' family at this time of unbearable grief.

I first met James when I joined SET as a new Deputy Principal. James was one of the first people to reach out to offer help and support. Nothing was too much trouble or hassle and I will never forget his kindness and support.

May your cherished memories bring you peace, comfort and strength in the difficult days ahead x

Our condolences to Peter, Catherine & family at this very sad time.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

I remember the day I first saw Mr Docherty at a welcome address he gave to the new students that year in Willow Park. He was inspirational and always such a strong presence and support in the school for the boys. His loss is devastating for so many. We are shocked and saddened and wish to express our heartfelt sympathy to his family. His influence will live on in the hearts of so many young men.

We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Mr. Docherty .
Our heartfelt condolences to his Family and the Willow Park
Community and Blackrock College.
James was the kindest most considerate of teachers . Whom we had the pleasure to meet many years ago when he first joined Willow.
He understood his young men so well .
Always encouraging and caring.
May he Rest in Peace.

Deepest sympathy for all of the Docherty family, thinking of you at this sad time

Our condolences to Peter & the Docherty families on James's passing. May he rest in peace.

Deepest Sympathy to all the Sheerin and Docherty families on the sad passing of James.
May he rest in peace.

James was loved so much by so many. Sincere condolences to all his family, friends and colleagues in WPJS.

Among many other things, our boys remember a principal who would climb up a ladder (in his suit) onto the roof to retrieve their footballs at lunchtime. A principal who promised €2 to any boy whose name he forgot in the yard - but never needed to pay out. A principal who wanted every boy in the school to become the best version of themselves and never stopped encouraging them.

He was an inspiration to us all and we will never forget him. Rest in Peace James and thank you.

On behalf of all in Scoil Mhuire, Howth Primary School, I would like to offer my deepest condolences to James' family, friends, and the Willow Park School community. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of James. He was such an enthusiastic, passionate, go getter soul, who had the biggest impact on everyone he met and was adored by everyone in Willow. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this very devastating time.

I would like to offer my sincere condolences to James' family, and friends and the Willow Park and Blackrock school communities. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
James was a true gentleman who always had a ready smile and listening ear.
Valerie Heavey, Principal Ardtona House School

No words can express our upset for your loss, he was such a kind man. Our thoughts are with you Siobhan, Ciara and all the family.

Our deepest sympathies to the family of Mr Docherty, his friends and colleagues and all those whose lives he touched. We are utterly devastated for your loss. He was the spirit of Willow and we will all miss him dearly - present and past pupils, and families. His kind, compassionate and all giving nature will forever be remembered in our home. A true shining light. We are profoundly sad for the unfathomable loss of Mr Docherty's dear family, of whom he spoke so often and with so much love. His world. You are in our prayers.

Today's celebration of Mr Docherty's life was beautiful. The boys appreciated so much paying their respects to a role model and guiding light that knew every single boys name and interest, and made them all feel special.

We will forever think of Mr Docherty when we see the boys in blue and white. His young men. Who he guided with so much kindness and respect. The boys with muddy knees, ruddy cheeks and grins from ear to ear.

That was you Mr Docherty - your energy brought them so much joy. Thank you.

Ar dheis De go raibh a aimin dilis

Dear Siobhán, Ewan, Ciara and Meghan - our most heartfelt and deepest sympathies on the loss of your beloved husband and Dad.

James Docherty was simply an exceptional individual. Over the last seven years we got to know him as a mentor and leader, using his confident and distinctive voice to warm every room. His superpower lay not only in his remarkable kindness, but in parents having an unwavering belief in his ability to be a principal, an educator, and a friend to our sons.

Over my two and a half year term as Chairperson of the WPA, James’ tremendous character was further heightened. A listener, a conversationalist, a storyteller, a visionary, an advocate and an approachable person who loved nothing more than seeing projects through to their fruition. Every single decision was made with the boys’ best interests at heart and no hurdle was too high. He always had such immense gratitude for a privilege that was all ours.

We are so grateful to the Docherty family for lending your husband and Dad to the parents and boys of Willow Park every day; we are all the richer for having had him spoil our lives.

We will miss our regular chats and laughs, and the boys will miss their daily fist pumps along the corridor with a great pal.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh anam dílis.

Dee, Davis, Bobby, Ben & Teddy Colgan

Heartfelt condolences to Siobhan and family. May James rest in eternal peace.

Our heartfelt condolences to the Docherty family on the passing of your beloved James.

A headmaster and teacher of the highest order. One who clearly loved all his Willow ‘young men’ as they did him.

He will be forever remembered in by all those he inspired in Willow Park.

Sincere sympathy to Siobhan and family and the extended Docherty and Sheein families on the sudden passing of James.
May he rest in peace.

So sorry for your loss Peter, may he rest in peace.