August 19, 2025

Beloved Educator and Community Pillar Barbara Dougher Passes Away

News Summary

Barbara Dougher, a cherished member of Manhattan Beach, has passed away just shy of her 90th birthday. Known for her warmth, dedication to community, and love for family, she leaves behind a legacy marked by her commitment to education and her enduring spirit through challenges, including battling cancer. Barbara was an active member of her church and dedicated mother and grandmother, creating joyful memories through family gatherings and celebrations. Her loss is felt deeply in the community she lovingly served.

Manhattan Beach, California – Barbara Dougher, a beloved member of the community, passed away peacefully at her home just shy of her 90th birthday in 2025. Dougher, known for her warmth and passion for family and community, has left behind a legacy that resonates deeply with those who knew her.

Born in 1935 at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Beverly Hills, Barbara was the daughter of movie producer Edward Butcher and Carolyn (Garson) Butcher. Edward was known for producing several notable films, including “The County Chairman” and “Our Little Girl.” Barbara graduated from Beverly Hills High School in 1953, where she actively participated as a spirited song leader.

Following her high school years, she pursued higher education at the University of Southern California, earning a Bachelor’s of Science in Elementary Education, while also being a member of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. After completing her education, she dedicated her life to teaching, beginning her career in kindergarten education in Beverly Hills, then later continuing her work in Pasadena and San Marino. Her career as an educator culminated in her role as a special education aide, from which she retired in 1999.

Barbara’s journey took a significant turn when she met her future husband, Walton R. Dougher, on her sixteenth birthday. The couple married on September 14, 1957, and shortly after, moved to Lawton, Oklahoma, where Walton served as an Army Artillery Officer. Upon returning to Southern California, they settled in Manhattan Beach, where they spent 57 years together, raising their four sons: William (Carla), Thomas (Ellen), James (Diane), and John (Traci).

Throughout her sons’ childhoods, Barbara actively engaged in their sports and school activities. Family trips to places like Kemp Ranch and Balboa Island were cherished traditions. Known for her hospitality, she frequently hosted gatherings, including lively beach picnics and festive tailgate parties, creating joyful memories for family and friends. Christmas celebrations were particularly special, featuring abundant food and gifts that showcased her love for cooking, with recipes such as Sticky Buns and English Toffee featured in local cookbooks.

Music played an integral role in Barbara’s life, with a fondness for musicals such as Carousel, Oklahoma, and Mamma Mia adding to her vibrant personality. She approached life’s challenges with resilience, including four battles with cancer, which she faced with grace and a positive spirit. Her caregivers were considered “angels” in her life, and she formed deep bonds with them during her health struggles.

Barbara proudly embraced her roles as “Mom” and “Grammy,” leaving behind a large and loving family, including grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Preceding her in death were her husband, Walt, her brother Ted, and numerous friends. As an active member of the American Martyrs Catholic Church, she was confirmed alongside her husband on Easter Sunday in 2000, deepening her connection to her faith and community.

A funeral mass for Barbara Dougher is scheduled for September 5, 2025, at 10 AM, with Monsignor John Barry set to preside. Known as the heart of every gathering, Barbara Dougher will be deeply missed by those who were fortunate enough to know her, leaving a lasting impression that will not be forgotten.

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Author: STAFF HERE BEVERLY HILLS WRITER

The Beverly Hills Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREBeverlyHills.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance, the Beverly Hills artSHOW, Concerts on Canon, and holiday celebrations throughout the city. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce and Visit Beverly Hills, plus leading businesses in luxury fashion, hospitality, and entertainment that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HERESantaAna.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, and HERECostaMesa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.