Elda was born on May 10, 1935, in Beaver Springs, Middle Creek Township, Snyder County, Pennsylvania, to Sherman David Wagner and Dorothy Cathrine Kline, hardworking dairy farmers in rural, mountainous Pennsylvania. She was the sixth of eight children, a mix of ornery and shy, yet full of determination. Known as “The Pistol” on the basketball court, Elda was a standout athlete and an excellent student. She graduated from Beaver Vocational High School in 1953.
Before graduation, Elda went on a blind date with a young Navy man at a square dance—one fateful night that would change her life. Less than a year later, on November 7, 1953, she married Robert Francis Morcha at St. John’s Ridge Church in Beaver Springs.
In 1954, they welcomed their first child, Robert "Bobby" Taylor, and two years later, their daughter, Sandy Jo - completing their family. A big fan of the Kansas City Royals, she loved her country music, annual fishing trips, and always had a story to tell.
Elda was the heart of her home—a devoted wife, a loving mother, and a cherished friend. She had a sweetness that was unmatched, and no matter how hard you searched, you’d never find a kinder soul. She sold Avon throughout town, worked at JCPenney, and later at the Grandview Courthouse for Judge Lou Davis. But her most treasured role was that of a mother and homemaker to Bobby and Sandy.
Elda was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 69 years, Robert Francis Morcha. She is survived by her son, Robert Taylor Morcha (Jo Ann), and daughter, Sandy Jo Sedler (Mike). She also leaves behind nine grandchildren: Joe O’Connor (Janet), Clayton Sedler (Brittany), Jamie LaBelle (Leo), Robert Taylor Morcha II, Nathaniel Morcha (Cori), Hollie Sedler, Travis Morcha, Joy Sedler, and Andrea Ricklefs (Joe), along with seven great-grandchildren.
In her final moments with her son Bobby, just a day before her passing, she softly said, “Home – home.” Fittingly, she departed on the very same day she was baptized 89 years ago. On the day God first cleansed her of sin, He welcomed her back into His eternal embrace.
A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at Mt. Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman Funeral Home, 10507 Holmes Road, Kansas City, MO 64131, followed by a graveside committal and a private family reception.
