Loretta Mae Shortt Maggard

Loretta Mae Shortt Maggard passed away peacefully on March 19, 2026, at the age of 86. She was born on August 16, 1939, in Flat Gap, Virginia to the late Millard and Helen Shortt.

Loretta was a proud graduate of Pound High School in 1957. She soon married the love of her life, Jack Maggard, on August 24, 1957.

Loretta had a great love of music, family, and cooking. As a young lady, she often sang with her family, including sisters and cousins, which created many fond memories for her. Most weekends were spent with her husband and family around a bountiful table of glorious food that she prepared with loving hands.

Loretta's legacy is carried on by her daughters, Debbie Peak and husband Patrick, Theresa Zody and husband Mark, grandchildren, Rachel Merchant and husband Tyler, Jack Zody, great-grandchildren, Jack, Wren and Lydia Merchant as well as her many brothers, sisters, nieces, and nephews.

Loretta is preceded in death by her parents and her beloved husband, Jack Maggard. Also, preceding her in death is her brother, Ruben Shortt, and sisiter, Betty Theilmann and Barbara Hair.

Loretta was a gentle, sweet soul. She lived with great compassion and love. She will be forever in our hearts.

A memorial for Loretta will be held at Southeast Christian Church Chapel in the Woods, 1407 Moser Road, Louisville, Kentucky, 40299, on Saturday, March 28, 2026. Visitation will be at 3:00 pm with the memorial service at 4:00 pm.