Marza Leta Harris Daugherty, age 83, joined her beloved husband on Sunday, 20 October 2019. She was a resident of Colorado Springs for 47 years.
Marza was born 13 November 1935 in El Paso, Texas. She met the love of her life, Jerry Daugherty, while in high school and they were married just months after their graduation on 13 September 1954. Just three months later they embarked on a journey of 27 years with the United States Air Force. Marza enjoyed being a military spouse and was able to experience living in places such as the Philippines, Japan and various states across the nation. They were stationed at Colorado Springs in 1972 and forever made this their home.
Marza became a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) on 13 December 1978; making her a second generation of the organization. She remained a member for 41 years. Another big joy of hers was to travel the world. Marza hiked the Inca Trail at Machu Picchu, Peru; walked amongst the mysterious heads on Easter Island; took in the incredible view from the Acropolis in Athens, Greece; and explored the massive palaces in Moscow and St Petersburg, Russia. She also visited England, Whales, Scotland, Ireland, numerous countries in mainland Europe, the Caribbean Islands and Canada. In retirement, Marza and Jerry traveled the United States while visiting their children and grandchildren. The last trip together was taking in the beautiful sights of Alaska and going on an Alaskan cruise.
Marza was an incredible homemaker who had wonderful skills. She could put together the most lovely floral arrangements, techniques she learned while living in Misawa Japan, and mastered the talent of creating beaded/jeweled Christmas ornaments the family will always cherish.
She is survived by her daughters, Victoria Daugherty Nihiser, Jeannette Daugherty Hill and Nona Daugherty; her brother, Lloyd Harris; and her grandchildren, Nick Nihiser, Weston Nihiser, Marza Hill and Mirren Hill. She was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Jerry Leon Daugherty; her father, Jessee Harris; her mother, Victoria Chaney Harris; and brother, Lavern Harris.
Rather than a funeral, Marza’s wishes were to have her ashes spread with Jerry’s. The family will hold this intimate memorial in the near future. The family asks that you send out prayers that this couple has once again reunited and that Marza is in an amazing place where there is no sorrow or pain. She is once again young and full of new excitement and wonder!
Beryl Tooke
31 Oct 2019So sad to hear of Marza’s untimely death. I met her several times when she visited Nona and Victor in Gazeley, England. I will remember her as a lovely lady, very friendly and also very talented. I have one of her Christmas Baubles that she made for me. A fitting reminder of happier times. Rest in Peace and Happiness with your husband. With happy memories, Beryl Tooke, Cambridgeshire, England.
Joan Barringer
7 Nov 2019Nona,
What a beautiful review of your mom.
You are rich to have had your time with her.
I’m so sorry for your loss.
Most sincerely, Joan Barringer
Jane DeVere
7 Nov 2019Nona,
Jim and I are so sorry for your loss. You and your family are our thoughts. May your Mom find peace and happiness in her eternal reunion with your Dad.
Fondly,
Jane DeVere
Lynne Mozer
7 Nov 2019So sorry for your loss. I am praying that you find peace as you go through this difficult time. Always here for you, Lynne Mozer
Becky Moschgat
13 Nov 2019Nona, There are no words to express our sorrow for your loss. Know that many of those whom you have supported over the years are ready and willing to stand with you and support you now. My you and your family find peace. Jim and Becky Moschgat
Carole Ann Wunderlich
14 Nov 2019Nona,
Roy and I are very sorry for your loss. By reading about your mom, she lived a very full and exciting life. You and your family have lots of fond adventures to remember her by and the journeys she gave to each of you. Our prayers go out to you and your family. We as your AF family are here for you.
Roy and Carole Ann Wunderlich
Angela Hindmand (367th Key Spouse)
16 Nov 2019Nona, your mother led such a wonderful and exciting life. As a military wife, it’s obvious she also has tenacity and a spirit of making any house, a true home. I am so sorry for your loss and may God provide you with His loving mercy during this time. We can’t always understand the why’s of this world, but I pray that the love and memories you have for your mom, will provide healing. God Bless