The Duke of Dorchester, Pete Doherty has passed away at the age of 83.
Dorchester native Pete Doherty wrestled for the WWF (now WWE) as the Duke of Dorchester for over twenty years. Known for his blond hair, missing teeth, and wild ways, the Duke was considered a “heel jobber” in the biz and had many matches, including ones against Andre the Giant, Junkyard Dog, and King Kong Bundy.
According to Cape News, the Duke earned his wrestling name when he showed up late to a match in New York. Chief Jay Strongbow said, “Well, well, well, if it isn’t the friggin’ Duke of Dorchester. It’s about time you got here.”
In 1997, the Duke retired from wrestling but made occasional appearances at local events, including the WWF’s final event at the old Boston Garden.
Doherty was inducted into the New England Pro Wrestling Hall of Fame back in 2010. He passed away on June 16th, at the age of 83.
Obituary below:
Peter J. Doherty, 83, of Falmouth, Massachusetts, passed away at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston on June 16, 2026.
Born to Eugene and Anne Doherty, originally from Ireland, and settled in Dorchester, MA. Peter was guided by a generous spirit that touched everyone he met. He attended Hyde Park High School, proudly served his country in the United States Army, and later earned an Associate Degree in Business from Newbury College.
Peter lived a remarkable and accomplished life. Known to wrestling fans throughout New England as the “Duke of Dorchester,” he enjoyed a distinguished career as a professional wrestler with the WWF, as an actor, and as a television commentator. Beyond the spotlight, Peter was a skilled electrician who dedicated many years of service to General Dynamics.
Peter’s life was one of vibrant engagement with his communities in Falmouth and Plymouth, where he was a member of the Elks & Moose Lodge. While his accomplishments were many, Peter was most proud of the family he loved and the friendships he cultivated throughout his life. He especially treasured time spent with family at the lake, where some of life’s happiest memories were shared.
Peter was the beloved husband of the late Joan (Doyle) Doherty; devoted father of Lisa (Doherty) Sheehan and her husband, Dan, and Linda (Doherty) Gedgaudas and her husband, Mark; loving brother; and treasured uncle to many nieces and nephews.
A proud inductee of the New England Pro Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2010, Peter left behind a legacy that extends far beyond the wrestling ring. As we say goodbye, we celebrate a life filled with character, laughter, generosity, and love. The memories Peter created, and the lives he touched, will remain with us always.
Interment services with military honors are scheduled for June 24, 2026, at 12:30 PM at the Massachusetts National Cemetery. To his family, friends, and wrestling fans alike, Peter will always be our superstar.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne, MA, to support the continued beautification and care of these sacred grounds. Contributions can be made online via the Pay.gov Form to the Veterans Stewardship Account, or by check mailed directly to the cemetery.
Image via WWE
Maureen Dahill is the editor of Caught in Southie and a lifelong resident of South Boston sometimes mistaken for a yuppie. Co-host of Caught Up, storyteller, lover of red wine and binge watching TV series. Mrs. Peter G. Follow her @MaureenCaught.
In the old days before the then-WWWF really exploded, on a small show in ‘79 or so wrestled at the high school gym in my hometown of Manchester, Connecticut. I especially loved it because of anyone on the card, he was chosen to wrestle first under a mask and the second time as himself. He was totally hilarious both in the ring and on the stick. I always thought it was a great shame that he didn’t get a bigger opportunity, I thought he could’ve been as big as Captain Lou Albano given his wide range of talent