Makenzie Dougherty

Makenzie Kathryn was born on March 12th, 2000 in Cleveland, OH to Kathryn and Jon-Paul Dougherty. She became our Angel in Heaven on November 26th, 2022 at the age of 22.  Her sweet smile and sparkling eyes could light up a room.  She made our world a better place.

Our precious daughter was born with CHARGE Syndrome, which brought many challenges to her life. Her strong spirit guided her through obstacles and inspired those blessed enough to know her. For such a complicated girl, the simplest things in life brought her the most joy. She loved watching her favorite movies., doing puzzles, going for drives in the car, swinging, swimming, looking at pictures, and Face Timing loved ones. Despite her challenges, it was her love of the people and things around her every day that fueled her unwavering spirit.

Makenzie is preceded in death by her Bumpa John Dougherty and her Nana Joan Overton. We take comfort in knowing they lifted her up as she rose to Heaven and wrapped her in their loving arms. Surviving are her parents; siblings Spencer, Carter, and Mallory; Grandma Bobbie Dougherty of Fort Mill, SC; Papa Frank Overton of South Haven, MI. Many special Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins also survive.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Makenzie’s honor online to the CHARGE Syndrome Foundation ; Rainbow Babies Children’s Hospital in Cleveland , OH; or Levine Children’s Hospital in Charlotte, NC . Services will be held December 2nd, 2022 at St. Matthew Catholic Church in Charlotte, NC. Visitation at 10:00am with funeral mass following at 11:00am.

Makenzie’s light will shine on as our hope and our guide.