Obituary of John A. Doody

John Arthur Doody, 90, of Shortsville, passed away peacefully on April 12, 2025, surrounded in love by his family. Born January 12, 1935, in Canandaigua, NY, he was the son of Arthur and Doris (Gilligan) Doody. John attended Shortsville schools and went on to study for the priesthood, earning a bachelor's degree in philosophy from St. Bernard's Seminary in Rochester. He later studied Russian at the U.S. Army Language School and served four years in the military, translating classified documents. After his service, he earned a master's in social work from the University of Buffalo and devoted his career to helping others—working with Catholic Charities, the Association for the Blind, Willard Psychiatric Hospital, the Canandaigua VA Hospital, and Gateway Youth Services. John was a passionate and dedicated runner. After lacing up his first pair of running shoes in 1979, he ran every single day rain, snow, or shine for over 20 years. He proudly completed the Boston Marathon 12 times, along with countless other marathons and ultramarathons. Music also brought him great joy. He sang for many years with the Finger Lakes Chorale and was known for his beautiful tenor voice. John was a committed activist for peace, the environment, and marginalized communities, and he gave generously of his time as a volunteer for Hospice, Meals on Wheels, and the Friendly Visitor Program. He found joy in gardening, reading, writing, and, above all, in his family. John will be remembered for his quick wit and love of puns, his deep humility, steadfast devotion to family, his easy smile and signature peace sign as he ran by, and the quiet way he made everyone feel seen and accepted. He is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Norma Jane (Vienna) Doody; children Paul (Christine) Doody, Jane (Dave) Bulger, Patrick (Karen) Doody, Dennis (Colleen) Doody, Christopher (Martha) Doody, Michael Doody, and David (Mike) Doody; grandchildren Kayla (Cole) Talbott, Brynna Doody, Dan (Nicole) Bulger, Katie (Alex) Bulger, Matthew and Claire Doody, Ryan (Simone) Doody, Shannon (Evan) Doody, Shealyn, Andrew, and Mallory (Justyn) Doody, Dan (Lauryn) Bredesen, Jay (Amelia) Doody, and Anna (Colby) Doody; and six great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Ann Peters, and many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Alice "Ollie" Appleton. Calling hours will be held Monday, April 21st, from 12–2 PM at Fuller Funeral Home, 190 Buffalo St., Canandaigua. A funeral Mass will follow at 3 PM at St. Mary's Church, 95 N. Main St., Canandaigua. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Glaucoma Research Foundation or a local charity of your choice. To share a memory or express condolences online, please visit www.fullerfh.com.