Norma Axelrod Daugherty, 80, of Osterville, died October 13, 2010 after a brief illness. Norma, known affectionately by her friends as "Nicky", was loved for her warmth, sweet sense of humor, her generosity and her beautiful smile. She was her children's very best friend and confidante. She was a great cook and loved to entertain. Her home was always filled with friends, food and laughter. She was a delight to all who knew her. The daughter of Herman and May (Coperman) Axelrod, Norma was born in Hartford, Conn., and lived in West Hartford before retiring to Cape Cod. She was predeceased by her husband of 36 years, Ivan S. Daugherty, Jr. who died in 1993. She leaves a son, James Morgan Daugherty of Osterville, a daughter, Mina Lynn Vaughan and grandson, James Richard Vaughan, both of Centerville, and a brother, Arthur Axelrod and his wife Gloria of Stuart, Florida. Norma earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Connecticut and worked as a Medical Librarian at the Institute of Living in Hartford. Able to retire early, Norma remained active and enjoyed Osterville and its three bays, Dowses Beach, her YMCA classes and companions, the Red Sox, and visits from her children and many friends. There will be a gathering on Eel River next summer to celebrate her life. In lieu of flowers and contributions we ask all who knew her to follow her example of selflessness, optimism and generosity.