Ethel Clarke LeFevre

Ethel Clarke LeFevre, age 92, passed away on Tuesday, July 17, 2018, in St. George, Utah. From her birth in Rexburg, Idaho on July 21, 1925, to her death, Ethel nourished and served all those around her.

Born to Bertha Henderson and Lester Lavern Clarke, Sr., she was the middle of eight children, each of which preceded her in death. Ethel was a sunny, joyful child who emulated her mother’s hard work, dedication, and faith. During her final years, Ethel missed her siblings Bill, John, Margene, Lester, Jim, Allen, and Katie Clarke.

Growing up in Cannonville, Utah, Ethel met her husband Lamar LeFevre in high school where she was a star pupil. Lamar was instantly drawn to Ethel’s beautiful hair at the school dance where they met, and he married his sweetheart on Dec. 6, 1944, in Vallejo, Calif. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Logan Temple on Feb. 27, 1948.

Ethel lived in Hawthorne between 1953 and 1966 while Lamar was the principal of the grade schools during that time.

Ethel and Lamar’s lifelong courtship took them to movies, dancing, and across the world as they both served in leadership roles for the Lions Club.

Known for her smile, summer garden and saltwater taffy stash, Ethel was never one to turn a blind eye to those in need. She was active in the PTA and made it a goal to feed the homeless as she always had a warm meal waiting to serve. This generosity was the hallmark of her life and spread throughout years of service as a Relief Society president for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). Having served as the president in three different congregations, Ethel’s legacy was one of ongoing faith and courage.

Her sensitivity to the needs of others extended to her family and those who visited Bryce Point, the bed and breakfast she ran with her husband in Tropic, Utah. The inn became a home away from home to many who enjoyed her mouthwatering 7-Up pancakes, homemade apple cider syrup and famous peanut brittle. Each visit began and ended with her sweet swaying hug, which lingered with family members as they headed home.

Her lifelong spirit of resilience and good humor modeled a life of service, and she was loved because she was full of love.

She is survived by her beloved husband of nearly 74 years, Lamar; children: Lynn (Karen) LeFevre, Leslie (Dela) LeFevre, Susan (Jon) Moody, and Clark (Stacey) LeFevre; 13 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held on Monday, July 23 at the Tropic LDS meetinghouse Burial followed at the Tropic Cemetery. Funeral Directors: Magleby Mortuary, Richfield, Salina and Manti. Online guestbook at www.maglebymortuary.com