Darla Dougherty

Darla Dougherty, age 68, passed away unexpectedly on February 14, 2025 in Goldsboro MD. She was born on January 25, 1957 in Unazuki, Japan. She lived in different states as the daughter of an Air Force Veteran, but her family settled in Frederica, Delaware where she spent most of her childhood with her 5 siblings. She was the Daughter of Earl H. Welty Jr. And Leta M. Welty. 

She is survived by her husband of 23 years, Thomas Dougherty of Goldsboro MD, a daughter, Hollie McMullen of Milford; two stepsons Daniel and Brandon Dougherty both of Wilmington; 5 siblings who she loved dearly: Susan Messick and Kay Skinner, of Milford, Sharon Legates of Camden, Earl H. Welty ll of Florida, and Rick Welty of Felton; 7 grandchildren: Nathaniel Colon of Lincoln, Cheyenne and  Hezekiah Welty of Elkton MD, Sierra and Kaylie McMullen of Milford, and 2 other grandchildren; 9 nieces and nephews and finally, many close friends whom she considered family. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Leta Welty, and her eldest daughter, Erica J. Welty. 

Being the free spirited woman that she was, during their 23 years together, Darla and Tom traveled the country. She befriended many people during their travels. Her favorite place during their travels was Port Isabel, Texas. Tom always went along with Darla’s “shenanigans” and for that, thank you for always taking care of my mom through the good and bad. Darla left a light on the world that will forever be dimmed. She was our hippie at heart. She loved her family, gardening, thrift shopping, cooking, baking, traveling, animals, her beloved dog, GiGi, and being the eccentric, kind hearted, funny person she was. 

A viewing will take place on Monday, February, 24th 2025  from 11 a.m. until 12 p.m. at Lofland Funeral Home in Milford Delaware. Funeral services will follow the viewing at 12 p.m. There will be a catered meal at Ettas Catering on Rehoboth Blvd. following the service. All are welcome to come and share the memories and stories of Darla. 

In Lieu of Flowers, dish gardens can be donated to the family so we can keep her green thumb around for years to come. You may also donate to offset some of the funeral costs that can be sent directly to Lofland Funeral Home, 102 Lakeview Avenue, Milford Delaware 19963. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Darla Dougherty, please visit our floral store.