Leonard D. Daugherty

Leonard D. Daugherty passed away peacefully on March 10, 2026, at his home, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on February 29, 1944, in Des Moines, Iowa, to the late Rev. L.A. Daugherty and Mary Evelyn Tigner Daugherty, Len carried the unique distinction of a Leap Year birthday with characteristic humor, often joking that he was only “twenty and a half years old.” That playful spirit remained with him throughout his life.

Len served his country in the United States Air Force and took great pride in his veteran status, frequently wearing his U.S. Air Force Veterans hat and striking up conversations with anyone who noticed. He married the love of his life, Deenie Springer Daugherty, on June 27, 1964. Together they shared nearly 62 years of marriage filled with deep love, laughter, and faith while raising their four children.

An adventurous soul with a fondness for practical jokes, Len embraced life fully—whether drifting across the water on an airboat, mudding through fields, or traveling overseas to the UK, Scotland, and Ireland. He was a passionate sports fan who cheered for the Iowa Hawkeyes, the Tennessee Vols, and especially his beloved Chicago Cubs, delighting in their 2016 World Series victory. Yet nothing brought him greater joy than watching his children and grandchildren play sports, dance, act in plays, sing, or play instruments.

Faith stood at the center of Len’s life. The son of a minister, he served his church faithfully as a Sunday School teacher, head usher, and greeter, offering a warm welcome and helping hand to all. He held a deep affection for animals and was rarely without a beloved dog or cat, most recently his cherished Suzi and Callie. Above all, Len treasured his family.

He is survived by his wife, Deenie Daugherty; his children, Jeff Daugherty, Tammy (Keith) Ver Steeg, Brad Daugherty, and Craig (April) Daugherty; 17 grandchildren to whom he was “Pampaw,” and 3 great-grandchildren, along with many extended family members and dear friends. Len will be remembered for his joyful spirit, unwavering faith, and the love and laughter he shared so freely with everyone around him. His legacy of faith, family, and laughter will live on in all who knew him.