Judith Daugherty Stovall

Judith K. Daugherty Stovall, RN, PhD.

May 16, 1940 - November 28, 2024

Judith K. Daugherty Stovall, lovingly known as "Judy or Nana by some" passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 28, 2024, surrounded by her loved ones. Born in Philipsburg, PA, Judy lived a life of dedication, compassion, and had a profound impact in the nursing and healthcare fields.

Judy graduated from Penn Trafford High School in 1958, pursued her passion for nursing at the Presbyterian Hospital School of Nursing in 1961, and furthered her education at Duquesne University where she obtained her BSN. She later earned her MPA and Ph.D. from the University of Pittsburgh, cementing her legacy as a pioneer in healthcare and education.

Her career began at Magee Hospital, where her skills and dedication quickly led her to an administrative role at Monsour General Hospital in Jeannette, PA. During this time, she played a pivotal role in establishing a much-needed nursing program at Westmoreland County Community College, which has since educated countless nurses.

Judy's journey continued at Johnstown Mercy Hospital, where she worked for 15 years. Recognizing a broader need for innovation in patient care, she founded her own software company, EXCELCARE, Inc. in 1984. Through EXCELCARE, Judy revolutionized nursing practices by implementing standards for patient care, improving quality of care in hospitals and facilities around the globe.

After retiring as the owner of EXCELCARE, Judy found a new purpose volunteering as a night nurse with the Sisters of Charity facility "Caritas Christi" showing her unwavering dedication to service to patients even at 70 years old.

While Judy's professional accomplishments were significant, her greatest joy and passion in life was her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, whose love knew no bounds. Judy was the cornerstone of her family, always offering her support, wisdom, and kindness. She celebrated every milestone, cherished every gathering, and never missed an opportunity to express how proud she was of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her warmth, selflessness, and unwavering dedication to her family will forever be remembered as her most remarkable gift.

Judy was preceded in death by her beloved granddaughter, Alexandra Daugherty. She is survived by her devoted husband, Michael E. Stovall; her loving children, Dawn K. Metz of Ligonier and William David Daugherty (Tracy) of Laughlintown; her cherished grandchildren, Emily Daugherty (Ryan), W. Mason Daugherty (Kayla), and Jackson Daugherty; and five great-grandchildren: Kendyl, Finnegan, Molly, Alexander, and Noah. Judy also leaves behind six siblings and a host of nieces and nephews who will remember her warmth and wisdom fondly.

A viewing will be held on Monday, December 2, 2024, from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM at Snyder-Green Funeral Home Ligonier, Pa. A funeral service celebrating Judy's extraordinary life will take place on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at 11 AM at Heritage Methodist Church, located on the Diamond. In Lieu of Flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation to: The Sisters of Charity; Caritas Christi, Care of Sister Judy; 129 DePaul Center Rd, Greensburg, Pa 15601.

Judy's legacy as a trailblazer, educator, compassionate caregiver, and loving family matriarch will continue to inspire all who were privileged to know her.