LaRue Nelson Smith

Obituary - LaRue Nelson Smith
LaRue was born on December 17, 1924, to Vern and Lucia Thomander Nelson. She was the 3rd of 5 daughters: Hope (Workman), June (Palmer) deceased, Beverly (Mortensen), and Leah (Almond). Her mother died in child birth when she was very young. It was heartbreaking for this young family. Vern married another young lady named Verda Oliverson, whom soon became the loving mother that LaRue and her sisters were longing for. They loved Verda dearly and LaRue truly thought of her as her own mother. In this marriage, LaRue's baby brother was born, Gary Nelson. LaRue grew up in Glendale and had good memories of working on the farm and frolicking with her sisters and friends in the fields. She and siblings were very close and have loved one another for a lifetime.
She met her true and eternal love, Eliot Wray Smith, at a public dance in Glencoe. They were married on February 24, 1943, in the Logan LDS Temple. Eliot and LaRue lived in Riverdale, Preston and Pocatello over the years, and they were blessed with two sons and two daughters.
LaRue learned the meaning of hard work at an early age and kept that standard in raising her family. She always wore a beautiful smile and could cook a meal to feed an army without much thought. Her family was often lured home, no matter the distance, by her loving arms and home-cooked meals.
LaRue loved the outdoors and regularly accompanied Eliot on long camping trips. The sportsmen enjoyed the hot meals cooked over the fire. Her children were taught through example to respect and be grateful for wildlife and the beauty of the mountains.
LaRue was a gal of many talents. She styled hair for many years and loved associating with the women in the area. In addition, she was often found doing handwork. Through the years, she made quilts, dresses, afghans, tablecloths and for the last 15 years had worked on hardanger needlework day after day. She has created and given grandchildren, children and others beautiful handmade heirlooms that will be cherished forever.
LaRue was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many positions until her health started failing, even then served in the Relief Society at home. She was reunited with her eternal companion on February 3, 2010 who had preceded her in death last April. LaRue left her family with a rich legacy of strength, courage, faith, and love. She will be dearly missed.
LaRue is survived by her children, Lynnette (Bill) Mockli, Terry Wray (Cheryl) Smith, and Marla Jensen, 11 grandchildren, and 18 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister, her beloved husband, Eliot, her son, Ricky Eliot Smith, a grandson, Justin Terry Smith, and a son-in-law, Bruce R Jensen.
Funeral services will be held at noon Saturday, February 6, 2010, in the Riverdale LDS Chapel, located at 3562 North 1800 East, Preston, in Riverdale. A viewing will be held Friday, February 5, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Webb Funeral Home's new facility 1005 South 800 East in Preston and Saturday from 10:30 am to 11:30 am at the Riverdale church. Interment will be in the Riverdale Cemetery. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.webbmortuary.com