07/28/2025
The world mourns the loss of Robert Allen (Bob) Daugherty, a dedicated and accomplished photojournalist, who passed away at age 86 on July 21. Born on January 16, 1939, in rural Bath County, Kentucky, Bob’s early life was rooted in hard work on his family's to***co farm. His journey took a transformative turn when his family relocated to Marion, Indiana, during his teenage years.
There, Bob discovered a passion for photography that would define his life and career. At just 15, he obtained his first camera, joined the Marion High School newspaper, and worked for the Marion Chronicle Tribune, marking the beginning of a lifelong pursuit of visual storytelling.
Bob’s talent and drive led him to the Indianapolis Star, where he met his wife, Stephanie, a staff writer.
They married in 1963the same year Bob began a 43-year career with the Associated Press (AP).
For 40 of those years, Bob was based in the AP’s Washington, D.C. bureau, capturing some of the most pivotal moments in American and world history. His impressive portfolio included coverage of nine U.S. Presidents, the Gulf War, Watergate Hearings, Nixon’s historic trip to China, the Paris Peace Talks, the Olympics, national political conventions, Kentucky Derbies, Masters Tournaments, and World Series games. Later in his career he was named Chief of Bureau for Photos and served as Director of the State Photo Center until his retirement.
Highly respected among peers, Bob was described as one of the AP’s all-time greatsnot only for his photography but for his leadership, mentorship, and integrity. He earned numerous honors, including being featured in Who’s Who (198081), his 2007 induction into the Marion High School Hall of Distinction, the 2009 News Photographer of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award from the White House News Photographers Association, and induction into the Indiana Journalism Hall of Fame in 2015.
Beyond his professional life, Bob deeply valued family, community, and service. He and Stephanie lived in Falls Church, Virginia, for nearly four decades, where Bob took joy in coaching his son’s soccer team and officiating swim meets. After retiring, they settled in Noblesville, Indiana, where Bob remained active by volunteering with the Cicero Kiwanis and Noblesville Rotary Club.
Bob was admired not just for his talent but for his steady demeanor, kindness, sense of humor, and dedication to quality work. His witty remarks and playful pranks made him beloved by friends and family. Even through health struggles in later years, he faced life with stoic resilience and a positive spirit, always ready for the next challenge.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Stephanie; his son, John Patrick Daugherty; grandson, John Thomas Daugherty; daughter-in-law, Karim Daugherty; sister, Alberta Brock; two nieces, grand-nieces and a grand-nephew; sister-in-law Trena Goodwin; and his cherished cat, Eli. He was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Kathleen Daugherty of Marion, IN and an infant daughter.
In Bob’s own words, his advice ---Enjoy a Perfect Rob Roy over “an apple a day,” watch the sunsets, and always mentor a young person. Honoring his wishes, no formal service will be held. A private celebration of his life will take place on August 10. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation in his name to the Cicero Kiwanis or Noblesville Rotary Club. His legacy of love, humor, and excellence endures.
In celebrating Bob's life, we invite you to share your memories, stories, and photographs on his memorial page at www.hartleyfuneralhomes.com. These contributions will serve as a comforting keepsake for her family and a beautiful testament to Bob's vibrant life.”
See: https://www.indystar.com/obituaries/psbn1237407
