Obituaries : Betty Lou Dougherty

Betty Lou Dougherty, 90, of Cedar Rapids, died after a short battle with dementia on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at her home. Services: 11:00 a.m., Friday, February 27, 2026, Teahen Funeral Home by Officiant Penny Ackerman. Burial: Czech National Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family on Thursday, February 26, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Teahen Funeral Home, and on Friday after 10 a.m. 

Betty is survived by her daughters, Brenda (Dennis) Harrington, and Kelly (Randy) Schmidt, all of Cedar Rapids; grandchildren, Jennifer (Eric) Whitted of Polk City, Jessica Harrington (Cory Weigand) of Cedar Rapids, Daniel Schmidt (Amanda Rathje) of Shellsburg, and Bradley (Kaylee) Schmidt of Marion; great-granddaughters, Katelynn and Meredith Whitted; best friend, Stephanie Madden of Cedar Rapids; and faithful Scottie companion, Baxter.

Betty was preceded in death by her loving husband of 69 years, William “Bill” Dougherty.

Betty was born on April 8, 1935, daughter of Clarence and Bessie Cansky Bradley in Cedar Rapids. She graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1951. Betty married the love of her life William Eugene Dougherty on August 19, 1953. She worked for Norand Corporation as an assembler for many years and later owned and operated her own cleaning business, Busy Bee's Cleaning. Later in life, she and Bill worked together at the Blairs Ferry Wendy’s.

Betty had an unconditional love for her family. She always traveled to attend her grandchildren’s many school and sporting events. Betty loved cooking and baking for her family and was known for her experimental recipes. She also enjoyed gardening and lovingly tended to her many beautiful flowers. Betty was happiest sitting on the bench by the pond with Bill.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Dogs Forever.