Scholarship Looks To Honor Morristown Alum Who Died Of ALS

MORRISTOWN, NJ — Patrick Christopher Donaghy is gone too soon, his friends say, dying in November after a five-year battle with ALS. Now, his classmates from the Morristown High School class of 1987 are looking to preserve Donaghy's spirit by establishing a new scholarship for students with medical needs.

Spearheaded by a group of classmates, the "Patrick Christopher Donaghy Jr. Memorial Fund" is looking to establish a scholarship fund, as well as off-set medical costs for Donaghy's widow, Tikky. So far, $2,850 has been raised towards a $5,000 goal.

"Emulating the cliche 'to know Pat was to love Pat,' still falls short of his kind heart and warm nature. Not many can walk and leave this Earth where most, if not all, can say they loved them. Pat was rare, but he was never puffed up and one who was charismatic, empathetic, responsive, engaging and approachable. His level of love and compassion for those around him, forced us to check our own moral compasses, as he was True North," fundraiser organizers wrote in a GoFundMe.

The proceeds from the fundraiser will be presented to Donaghy's family at a mid-March celebration of life.

"When they learned that a scholarship would be awarded to a MHS student who has medical/health challenges themselves or an immediate family member where financial assistance would help them attend college, they were brought to tears," organizers said.

Donaghy was active in his community, sitting on several city boards in Dover and running for Dover City Council, an obituary says. He was involved in AA and NA recovery communities, and pursued comedy in his free time. Donaghy worked as a licensed plumber and electrician for 16 years.

To donate to the scholarship fund, click here.