Candice Lucile Doherty, known affectionately as “Candy,” passed away peacefully on September 29, 2025, at Arbor Post Acute in Chico, California, at the age of 77. Born in Lincoln, Nebraska, on August 14, 1948, Candy was the second of four children born to William and Janice Gray. She was raised in Nebraska City, Nebraska, alongside her two brothers, Robert and John, and her sister, Rhonda.

Candy’s compassionate nature led her to pursue a career in nursing, earning her degree from Lincoln General Hospital. It was during her time as a nurse at Denver General Hospital in Colorado that she met the love of her life, William “Bill” Doherty. The couple later moved to Minnesota while Bill pursued a fellowship at the Mayo Clinic. In 1985, they chose Chico as the place to raise their family, where they built a home filled with love and cherished memories.

A lifelong animal lover, Candy had a deep passion for wildlife rehabilitation and cared for numerous pets, big and small, throughout her life. Her devotion to animals was matched only by her love of travel, and she enjoyed visiting places like Canada, Alaska, Nebraska, and many others with her family. Above all, Candy treasured the time spent with her loved ones, whether at home or on adventures.

Candy is survived by her two daughters, Lauren Isaacson of Boca Raton, Florida, and Erynn Nelson of Corning, California; her three grandsons, Patrick (9), William (6), and Grayson (3); and her brothers, Robert and John Gray. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 35 years, Bill Doherty, and her sister, Rhonda Gray.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Chico Women’s Club, located at 592 East 3rd Street, Chico, California, on Saturday, November 8, 2025, beginning at 10:00 AM. Refreshments will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Butte Humane Society or a charity of your choice, in care of Brusie Funeral Home, 626 Broadway, Chico, CA 95926.