Norma Jean Daly

Norma Jean Daly (Mertz), 84, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 30, 2026.

Norma was born in Aberdeen, SD, on October 10, 1941, to Don and Maxine (Thompson) Mertz. She grew up in the Columbia area and graduated from Columbia High School in 1959.

Norma was a member of the Sacred Heart Church in Aberdeen, SD. She was united in marriage to Anthony “Tony” Daly of Columbia, SD on June 18, 1960, at Sacred Heart Church. Together, they built many homes and raised four sons.

Norma worked primarily for Daly Construction as the bookkeeper for many years. Norma’s other jobs included the school cafeteria and cleaning homes. Her favorite pastimes were baking and shopping. Norma had a substantial collection of egg plates, figurines, and Christmas decorations. She loved to decorate for the holidays. Norma also enjoyed her children and grandchildren very much.

Grateful for having shared Norma’s life are her sons Tab (Chris) Daly of Omaha, NE and his children Alex, Andi & Spencer; Scott (Cleo) Daly of Omaha, NE and their children Carissa, Dustin, Lindsay & Dillon; Troy (Echo) Daly of Omaha, NE and his children Taylor & Madison; and Trent (Tina) Daly of Sioux Falls, SD and their children Allison, Brady & Adam; fifteen great grandchildren; and one brother Dick Mertz.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Tony, and her parents, Don and Maxine, of Aberdeen, SD, two sisters, and one brother.

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