Martha Darlene Dougharty, 75, a lifelong resident of DeQuincy, passed away Monday, June 1, 2026.
Darlene was a 1968 graduate of DeQuincy High School and earned her nursing degree from Northwestern University in Natchitoches returning to DeQuincy to marry the love of her life, Troy J. Dougharty in 1972.
As a registered nurse, she worked at the DeQuincy Hospital a few years before transferring to West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital where she continued her career until retirement in 2006.
While employed with WCCH, she worked in many departments and became a crucial part of healthcare leadership as a long-time supervisor. During Darlene’s working years, she was a member of various civic and professional organizations. After retiring, she devoted herself to music, learning to play the guitar and most recently ensuing the piano. She loved any opportunity to gather for a “jam session” with her many music friends, she almost weekly traveled to pick and sing. She was also known for her music sessions held at her home.
Darlene traveled extensively, locally and abroad, not only with her husband but her sisters as well as chartered travel clubs. She spoke frequently of various destinations but always included her most memorable trip to the Holy Land.
In her later years, she became a computer enthusiast, tracing family roots and navigating historical records of the ancestry and genealogy world. She will be remembered for keeping in touch with friends and former colleagues via Facebook.
Darlene was Pentecostal and lived her life authentically surrounding herself with vibrant experiences whether through learning, art, travel or spiritual growth.
Darlene is survived by her husband, Troy J. Dougharty; sisters, “Nita” Ratcliff and Wanda Parker as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.
She was predeceased by her parents, Louis L. “Red” and Juanita Richmond Baggett; infant brother, David and other extended family.
The family receive d friends Wednesday, June 3, from 4-8 p.m. at Riley Smith & Sons Funeral Home in DeQuincy. Visitation continued Thursday, June 4, from 9 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11 a.m., Riley Smith & Sons Funeral Home. Rev. Mike Streams officiated. A private interment was held at Perkins Cemetery in DeQuincy.
Arrangements were handled by Riley Smith & Sons Funeral Home, 1810 W. Fourth St., DeQuincy.
(Paid Memorial)
