August 16, 1931 – May 6, 2017

Byron passed away after a short illness but long life filled with generosity, curiosity, humor, and service to others. His deep Christian faith led him to teach Sunday School and serve as Elder and Deacon at churches including Colonial Presbyterian in Kansas City, National Presbyterian in Washington, D.C., and First & Calvary in Springfield.

Byron held a Bachelor's degree from Missouri State University where he played on the varsity golf team, Masters degrees from the University of Illinois, University of Missouri at Kansas City, and Indiana University. He served in the U.S. Air Force for four years and went on to a federal government career at the Defense Mapping Agency and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

His adoration for his wife Marilyn never faded during their 61 years of marriage. He was a loving and devoted caregiver, son, brother, father, and friend—and above all else, cherished his granddaughter Erin. He rejoiced in the talents and success of others, loving nothing better than news of two generations of nieces and nephews.

A lifelong learner, Google seemed to have been invented for Byron, inspiring him to explore and share a world of topics large and small. Another passion—playing, watching, and talking sports, especially Missouri State Bears basketball. He fell in love with golf as a teenager and joyfully chased small white balls across beautiful green landscapes for most of the rest of his life. His constant compassion for those in need and unwavering desire for social justice and equality defined his spirit and set a high standard for those of us left behind.

Byron was preceded in death by his beloved wife Marilyn, parents Clay and Marcella Daugherty, and sisters Peggy Haines and Linda Daugherty. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law Susan and Eric Hatch, granddaughter Erin Hatch, brother and sister-in-law Carl and Pat Daugherty and 13 nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held Sunday, May 21, 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. at Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home in Springfield.  Byron will be interred in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA.  Any donations may be made to the Daugherty Family Memorial Fund at the Lamar United Methodist Church, 900 Poplar Street, Lamar, Missouri 64759.